The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an independent investigation into a fatal road traffic collision involving a West Midlands Police vehicle in Acocks Green, Birmingham.
A 40-year-old man, described as a local resident, tragically died after being struck by a marked police car on Yardley Road, near the junction with Florence Road, at approximately 7pm on Wednesday, 19 March.
According to the IOPC, the police car was double-crewed and responding to an emergency call with its blue lights activated at the time of the incident. Officers provided first aid at the scene before paramedics arrived, but the man was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
Independent Investigation Underway
The IOPC confirmed it was notified shortly after the collision and declared an independent investigation by 8pm the same evening. Investigators attended the scene and began collecting evidence, including initial accounts from the officers involved, who are currently being treated as witnesses.
IOPC Director Derrick Campbell said:
“Our sympathies and thoughts are with the family and friends of the man who died and all those affected by this tragic incident.
It happened on a busy road, and we would urge anyone who witnessed what happened or has any dashcam or CCTV footage to get in touch with our investigators.”
The IOPC stressed the importance of understanding the full circumstances surrounding the collision, including whether officers acted in line with policy and procedure.
Witness Appeal Issued
As part of the ongoing inquiry, the IOPC is now urging members of the public to come forward with any relevant information. Witnesses or those with dashcam footage are asked to contact investigators by calling 0300 303 5606 or emailing [email protected].
IOPC investigators were seen conducting house-to-house enquiries and collecting local CCTV footage near the scene throughout Thursday afternoon.
The coroner has been informed, and a post-mortem examination is expected to be scheduled in the coming days.
Community Impact
The incident has raised questions and concern within the local community, prompting renewed calls for transparency in investigations involving police vehicles responding to emergency calls.
West Midlands Police confirmed that post-incident procedures were followed, and the force is cooperating fully with the IOPC investigation.
The IOPC has also reassured the victim’s family that they will be kept informed throughout the inquiry as investigators work to uncover the full facts.
