Woman, 22, who died in A1(M) crash named as man charged with murder

A 22-year-old woman who died following a crash on the A1(M) has been named by police, as two men face charges in connection with the incident.

A woman who died following a crash involving two vehicles on the A1(M) has been named as Elena Chiriac, 22, from Newcastle.

At around 6.10pm on Sunday (Oct 4), emergency services were called to the southbound carriageway between junctions 57 and 56, near Barton, following a crash involving a silver Ford Transit and a silver Volkswagen Golf.

Both vehicles had been travelling southbound when the crash happened.

Elena was pronounced dead at the scene.

North Yorkshire Police confirmed on Monday (Oct 12) that specialist officers continue to support her family as investigations into the circumstances surrounding her death remain ongoing.

A 31-year-old man from Newcastle has been charged with murder, attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) and dangerous driving.

A second man, aged 25 and also from Newcastle, was arrested on Friday (Oct 9) and has since been charged with encouraging or assisting the commission of assault offences, believing that one or more would be carried out.

Police also confirmed that a 24-year-old man arrested following the crash has been released with no further action.

Officers are continuing to appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage as part of their investigation.

A spokesperson for North Yorkshire Police said: “We would like to thank all those motorists who have already spoken to officers or come forward with information and dashcam footage to assist our investigation.

“However, we are continuing to appeal for witnesses. If you saw either vehicle in the moments leading up to the collision or witnessed the collision itself and have not yet spoken to police, please get in touch.

“We are particularly keen to hear from drivers with dashcam footage that may have captured either vehicle before the collision or the collision itself. Even the smallest detail could prove significant to our enquiries.

If you can help, please contact us using one of the following methods:

“If you are unable to use these options, please call North Yorkshire Police on 101.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can provide information to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.

“Please quote reference 12260195308 when providing information.”