Car involved in Halesowen crash failed to stop for police

A 17-year-old boy died at the scene of the collision, near the junction of Coombs Road and Amber Way, just after 3.15am this morning (Friday January 5). West Midlands Ambulance Service was alerted to the incident but nothing could be done to save the teenager and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Police tents at the crash scene in Coombs Road, Halesowen. (Image: Public)

Two 16-year-olds, who were also in the car, were taken to hospital with injuries which are not believed to be serious. Police have since confirmed the vehicle involved in the crash had failed to stop for officers moments before the tragedy and that the two injured teenagers have been arrested on suspicion of theft. As a result, the incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

A West Midlands Police spokesperson said this was "normal procedure" in such circumstances.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct said the crash happened "following a short pursuit" involving West Midlands Police and Staffordshire Police. The spokesman for the IOPC said: "We are independently investigating the circumstances of a fatal collision following a police pursuit in the Halesowen area at around 3.15am today.

"The driver was confirmed dead at the scene and two passengers were taken to hospital with injuries. "We declared an independent investigation at 5am. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this incident."

The watchdog added that it had sent investigators to the scene and was gathering evidence including police dash cam footage.

Roads surrounding the crash scene were closed while emergency services and collision reconstruction experts worked to establish the circumstances of the collision.

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