Tributes have been paid to a loving family man who died in a fatal collision on the A1 on Thursday evening.
Paul Mullen, who was driving a Toyota Hilux, was one of the victims who suffered fatal injuries after the incident.
The 51-year-old leaves behind his partner and three children.
In a statement released by Durham Police, his family said: “Our hearts are broken. Life will never be the same again.
“He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.”
The horror crash, which involved four cars and two lorries, took place on the A1 in County Durham at around 6.20pm.
The incident happened on the northbound carriageway of the A1 at Bowburn.
A man and a woman, who were in a Vauxhall Crossland, also died at the scene.
One of the lorries caught fire as a result of the pile-up and several other people were injured.
Durham Police said the families are being supported by specially trained officers.
Following the tragic crash, DS Dave Ashton, who is leading the investigation, 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.
“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.”
He has been released on bail.
Those who may have material relevant to the investigation, such as dashcam footage and photographs, can upload it via a portal set up by Durham Police.
To submit material, please visit https://mipp.police.uk and click on the Durham Constabulary tile.
