Tributes have been paid to a dad-of-three killed in a six vehicle pile up on the A1 which left three people dead.
A lorry burst into flames following the crash involving two HGVs and four cars at 6.20pm on Thursday.
The horrific incident took place on a northbound stretch of the carriageway close to the village of Bowburn, County Durham.
Today, police said Paul Mullen, 51, of Washington, near Newcastle, was driving a Toyota Hilux when he was killed.
He leaves behind his partner and three children, the force said.
In a statement released by Durham Police, his grieving family said: ‘Our hearts are broken. Life will never be the same again. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.’
A man and a woman who were in a Vauxhall Crossland also died at the scene of the collision.
One of the lorries caught fire as a result of the pile-up and several other people were injured.
The driver of one of the lorries, a 41-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail, police said.
Those who may have material relevant to the investigation into the crash, such as dashcam footage and photographs, can upload it via a portal set up by Durham Police.
In the aftermath of the crash, Detective Superintendent Dave Ashton, said: ‘This was a harrowing incident for everyone involved and our thoughts are with the family and friends of those who have lost their loved ones.
‘It has been incredibly upsetting and distressing for those who witnessed the collision, and for the emergency responders, including police officers, firefighters and paramedics, who attended the scene.’
‘This will be an extremely complex and lengthy investigation as the site of the collision is spread over some distance, and many of the vehicles involved have been severely damaged.
‘The road will also need to be assessed for damage prior to reopening to ensure the safety of future road users. Therefore, motorists should avoid the area and plan ahead if they need to travel.’
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