A 19-year-old police officer hurt in a crash while responding to a report of a separate collision has died of her injuries.

Northumbria Police said Jess Turnbull was a "dedicated and committed" officer who had joined the force in September.

She had been sent to the scene of a crash involving a Land Rover Freelander and Ford Explorer on the A189 Spine Road in Cramlington at 23:10 BST on Monday, but was injured when a black Mercedes crashed into a marked police car. She died in hospital on Wednesday.

A 73-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and released on bail.

Paying tribute to the officer, Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine said Turnbull "had so much still to look forward to in her career and her life" having "always sought to do her best to keep her communities safe".

"Every single day, police officers up and down the country face danger to protect the public.

"Thankfully, most go home - tragically on this occasion Jess did not.

"Jess made the ultimate sacrifice and that will never be forgotten."

In the initial crash the Ford left the road and the occupants of the Land Rover fled the area on foot before police arrived.

No serious injuries were reported at that point.

Then the Mercedes collided with a marked police car, injuring Turnbull, and the driver was arrested initially on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Confirming Turnbull's death, Jardine added: "Our thoughts very much continue to be with her family, friends, and all those that have been impacted by this devastating loss.

"We are mourning the passing of not only a colleague and a friend, but also our own family member."

The force has asked people wishing to pay their respects to not leave tributes at the crash scene but instead do so at Northumbria Police's Wallsend headquarters.

Northumbria Police Federation - a staff association representing the force's officers - said Turnbull "had already made a lasting impression on colleagues through her dedication, professionalism, and readiness to help people".

Chairman Nick Munnelly added: "I know this news will be felt by so many who knew and worked with Jess.

"At this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts remain firmly with Jess's family, friends and colleagues.

"We continue to support them in every way possible as they come to terms with this devastating tragedy.

"Jess's service, however brief, will not be forgotten and she remains in the thoughts of all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her."