Independent investigation after two men die following West Yorkshire Police pursuit

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has begun an investigation following a West Yorkshire Police pursuit.

The incident happened shortly after 1am on Friday 17 July.

We understand, at this time, that a West Yorkshire Police vehicle began a pursuit of a car in the centre of Brighouse. A short time later the car crashed into a road barrier on Bradford Road.

The two male occupants of the car, believed to be in their 20s, have since sadly died. Their next of kin have been informed and we will be making contact with them to explain our role.

IOPC Regional Director Miranda Biddle: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts are with the men’s family and friends and all those affected, including the emergency services in attendance.

“We sent investigators to the scene and to the post incident procedures, where the two officers in the police vehicle provided statements to us.

“It is mandatory, when someone dies following police contact, that the matter is referred to the IOPC. Our role is to establish and examine the circumstances of what happened; this work is already underway, and West Yorkshire Police is cooperating fully with our enquiries.”