Pursuit of a vehicle - West Midlands Police, October 2019

A West Midlands Police (WMP) officer was on routine patrol during the early hours of 24 October 2019 when he attempted to stop a Seat Leon that was travelling at excess speeds. The emergency equipment on the marked police vehicle was illuminated, however after initially pulling over, the Seat Leon drove off at speed. The police driver then started a pursuit believing the Seat Leon to be stolen. Shortly into the pursuit the driver of the Seat lost control of the vehicle, causing it to collide with a tree. The driver of the Seat sustained serious injuries.

The case was referred to us as is mandatory when someone is seriously injured following contact with the police. We conducted an independent investigation involving taking and examining statements and reviewing in-car CCTV footage.

During our investigation there was no indication any police officer may have behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings or committed a criminal offence. There was no evidence that the actions of the police may have caused or contributed to the injuries sustained by the driver of the Seat Leon.