Kamal Ghorui
Two men have been arrested after a tractor was allegedly driven “full throttle” into the front of a house in Middlesbrough, forcing residents to flee their homes during the early hours of Saturday morning.The incident happened shortly after 1am in the Whinney Banks area, where a tractor and baler reportedly crashed into a residential property, causing major structural damage and triggering a large emergency response.According to a report by The Sun, police have arrested two men, aged 27 and 34, on suspicion of conspiracy to destroy or damage property and theft of a motor vehicle.Both suspects remain in police custody for questioning.Several residents were evacuated from nearby homes over safety concerns following the crash. While some have since returned, police said two households remain displaced as structural assessments continue.Officers are now working alongside the local authority and structural engineers to determine whether the damaged property is safe.Witnesses described hearing loud engine noise before seeing flashing yellow lights moving through the street moments before the impact.One resident claimed the tractor appeared to accelerate directly towards the building.“I saw the yellow lights and thought it was a strange time for the bin lorry,” the neighbour reportedly said. “Then he turned and went full throttle into the house.”Detective Chief Inspector John Bonner said the investigation was “moving at pace” and confirmed officers were examining footage circulating on social media that allegedly showed activity at farms across Cleveland, North Yorkshire and Durham before the incident.Police have appealed to farm and landowners to report suspicious activity or provide CCTV footage linked to possible vehicle thefts in the days leading up to the crash.Authorities also warned that an increased police presence would remain in the area while investigations and safety inspections continue.
