£250K Police Fleet Written Off After Wild Chase on the M27
Four police vehicles were smashed beyond repair following a high-speed pursuit on the M27 in Hampshire in the early hours of Sunday morning. The dramatic chase unfolded between junctions 1 and 2 on the eastbound carriageway just after 2am.
High-Speed Drama on the M27
Officers launched a tactical pursuit after spotting a black Honda Accord driving uninsured. Attempts to stop the car quickly escalated into a high-speed chase. The Honda recklessly weaved through traffic, prompting police to intervene with multiple marked cars, including three BMW X5s valued around £50K each, and a BMW 530 worth over £40K.
One marked BMW X5 ended up on the central reservation, missing its rear axle. Another BMW X5 and a BMW 530 boxed in the Honda before a fifth BMW X5 was found disabled on the hard shoulder, also missing its rear axle. A red Peugeot was also hit during a rolling block manoeuvre to stop the Honda. Armed officers attended but no weapons were discharged.
Chaos and Car Carnage
- Four police vehicles written off, costing approximately £250,000 in total.
- Black Honda driven by a 58-year-old man suspected of dangerous driving, failing to stop, and drink-driving.
- Multiple arrests made; some injured taken to hospital, including two individuals whose identities as police or passengers remain unclear.
- Emergency services working to clear the scene, with the eastbound M27 between junctions 1 and 2 closed until at least noon.
Man Arrested After Dangerous Driving Spree
The 58-year-old driver of the Honda was arrested and taken to southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton General Hospital for medical checks. Thankfully, no serious injuries have been reported. Police are carrying out a full investigation, which will be referred to their Professional Standards Department as standard practice.
Motorists Face Long Delays
Highways England warns the road closure will last through the morning. Drivers are being diverted through Totton towards Southampton. Authorities urge caution and patience as repairs and investigations continue.
More updates to follow as this story develops.
