Watchdog launches probe over teen death after Halesowen chase involving two police forces

A watchdog has launched a probe after a teenager was killed following a police chase. The 17-year-old died when the car he was in smashed into a tree. West Midlands Police[1] said the crash happened 'moments' after the car failed to stop for officers in Halesowen in the early hours of today, Friday, January 5.

The force said the case was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The IOPC later confirmed it was 'independently investigating' following the smash. It sent its investigators to the scene and was gathering evidence including police dashcam footage.

Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp[3]. Join our dedicated community to get the latest updates. The crash happened 'following a short pursuit' involving both West Midlands Police and Staffordshire[4] Police, the IOPC said.

A spokesman 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 crash took place near the junction of Coombs Road and Amber Way.

Two 16-year-olds who were also in the car were arrested on suspicion of theft. Both were taken to hospital with injuries not thought to be serious. West Midlands Police[5] previously said: "The 17-year-old boy was in a car which failed to stop for police moments before hitting a tree, near the junction of Coombs Road and Amber Way, at just after 3.15am.

Sadly nothing could be done to save him and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The road has been closed while emergency services and collision reconstruction experts establish the circumstances of the collision.

The matter has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct as is normal procedure."

References

1. ^ West Midlands Police (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
2. ^ Universal Credit and PIP claimants issued DWP holiday travel warning (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
3. ^ BirminghamLive WhatsApp (chat.whatsapp.com)
4. ^ Staffordshire (www.birminghammail.co.uk)
5. ^ West Midlands Police (www.birminghammail.co.uk)