IOPC launches investigation after road collision in Lancaster

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) last night declared an independent investigation following a serious collision in Lancaster. Our investigation will look at the actions of Lancashire Constabulary officers, prior to the collision.

The incident happened at around 8.30pm on 25 May on Owen Road. A police driver was responding to an emergency call and collided with an 11 year-old-child. The boy suffered serious injuries and was taken to hospital where he remains in a critical condition.

After being notified by Lancashire Constabulary, we sent investigators to the scene and the police post-incident procedure to begin our enquiries and to start gathering evidence.

Initial evidence indicates the officer driving had activated his emergency equipment at the time the collision occurred.

IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said: “This is an incredibly tragic incident and my thoughts are with the boy, his family and all those affected by the incident.

“There is a mandatory requirement for forces to refer incidents like this to us, which result in death or serious injury, and our investigation will thoroughly examine the circumstances prior to the collision, including whether appropriate policies and procedures were followed.”