A gathering held to commemorate Michael Cahill, one of five men killed in the A66 crash, descended into disorder in a field near Haswell, County Durham, where youths allegedly drove vehicles erratically, set cars alight and launched fireworks. The incident matters because it comes amid heightened concern about violence in nearby Middlesbrough and Teesside, which police and local representatives believe may be connected to the crash and organised crime.

At least five cars were burned during the event, which included a balloon release spelling “Michael”, blue smoke flares and groups of masked or hooded young people filming the scenes. Cahill’s mother had invited people with cars, bikes, jeeps and quad bikes to attend, while local reports said horses in the field were distressed; afterwards, burnt-out vehicles remained on scorched grass. More than 200 additional officers were reportedly being brought in to support Cleveland Police, as MPs and council leaders said residents were worried about safety.