IPCC investigating circumstances of police pursuit prior to deaths of Makayah McDermott and Rozanne Cooper

The IPCC is investigating the actions of the police following a fatal collision in south east London. Makayah McDermott, 10, and Rozanne Cooper, 34, died after being struck by a black Ford Focus, which was being pursued by a single marked police car, in Lennard Road, Penge shortly after 2pm on 31 August 2016. Three girls were also taken to hospital for injuries sustained in the collision.

Following the incident, IPCC investigators attended the scene in order to secure available evidence. Investigators also attended the post-incident procedures, where the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers involved in the incident gave statements.

IPCC investigators have captured the on-board video footage and data recorder from the police vehicle and have completed a trawl for CCTV in the immediate area of the crash as well as talking to nearby residents.

Early evidence indicates that police driving a marked BMW car began pursuing the Ford Focus in Birkbeck Road, Beckenham, after officers responded to a vehicle identified as having been stolen previously. Further police vehicles and officers arrived at the scene shortly after the accident.

IPCC Commissioner Jennifer Izekor said:

“This was a horrendous incident and the IPCC extends its deep sympathy and condolences to the families of all those who have been involved in these tragic events.

“There is an ongoing criminal investigation by the MPS into the collision and the actions of the driver. The IPCC independent investigation will focus on the actions of the Metropolitan Police involved in the events leading up to and following the accident that claimed the lives of Rozanne and Makayah and led to the injuries sustained by the three young girls.”

IPCC staff have been on the scene over the last few days speaking to witnesses and gathering evidence. We are appealing to any members of the public who saw what happened in Penge before the accident or were on the scene to contact the witness line 0800 068 3356 or email [email protected]

The MPS is conducting a criminal investigation into the collision. The driver of the Ford Focus, a 23-year-old man, has appeared in court charged with two counts of causing death by dangerous driving, one count of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, two counts of causing death by driving while unlicensed and uninsured, and two counts of aggravated vehicle-taking. He has been remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on September 30.