The pair are currently in police custody for questioning as a cordon remains in place in Priory Road, Whinney Banks, Middlesbrough, where the shocking incident took place. Homeowners evacuated from their properties have been able to return – but two households are unable to while structural inquiries take place.
The red tractor and baler, stolen from farmer Ian Tate at Crossfield Farm, Crathorne, North Yorks, on Friday night, was driven and embedded into the home around 1.35am on Saturday, May 9. Police swiftly arrived at the scene, alerted by a neighbour who had watched the drama unfold.
TeessideLive reports Cleveland Fire Brigade also attended and Cleveland Police is now appealing for footage and CCTV from anyone who witnessed the incident but also from the farming community, who may have noticed unusual activity in recent days.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector, John Bonner said: “Our investigation is moving at pace with various enquiries taking place that has led to two arrests.
“I am aware of video footage circulating on social media which appears to show activity at farm locations across Cleveland, North Yorkshire, and Durham prior to the incident and would ask for the owners to report this to us.”
“I’m taking this opportunity to appeal directly to farm and landowners to contact us if they have any CCTV or information relating to intruders or suspicious activity on their land within the last seven days. There will continue to be an increased police presence in the area to provide reassurance to the community.”
The force said officers, alongside partner agencies, continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding what took place. Police will remain working with the local authority to arrange for structural engineers to assess the property and ensure it is made safe.
“Due to the scale of this work, it is likely the scene will need to remain in place for the next few days,” it said in a statement. “Specialist forensic teams will be carrying out detailed examinations, including the tractor involved.”
Anyone with information, dashcam or doorbell footage – including sightings of the vehicle – can contact Cleveland Police on 101 or visit the website quoting reference number 087639. Information can be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.