River search for man as woman arrested

News imageBBC Front view of a police vehicle parked at the side of a road at the end of a bridge. Other cars can be seen on the road and a figure in a high viz jacket stands next to a section marked off by police tape.BBC
The incident happened at the Gateshead end of the bridge

A river search operation is under way after reports a man went into the water following a disturbance.

Northumbria Police said officers were called to the Redheugh Bridge in Gateshead just before 22:00 BST on Friday.

A 48-year-old woman has been arrested in connection with the incident, police confirmed.

The force's marine unit and specialist teams from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are carrying out extensive searches of the area and the River Tyne.

Det Insp Andy Miller said: "While our investigation is very much in its early stages, we're committed to understanding the full events of yesterday evening.

"This is an incredibly busy entry route to the city centre and we know there was a lot of activity in the area at the time - including multiple vehicles passing."

He urged any witnesses or motorists with dashcam footage to come forward.

News imageAn orange rescue boat on murky water can be seen through the branches of a tree and wooden post. There are three crew members sitting in the vessel.
The force's marine unit and teams from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service are carrying out searches

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