The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation following a police chase in Paddington that resulted in a serious collision, leaving a man with life-threatening injuries and a woman with life-changing injuries.
According to a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police, the incident occurred at around 04:20 hrs on Friday, April 4. The car involved had driven away from a police vehicle just before the collision took place.
Emergency services, including the London Ambulance Service, were called to the scene. Both the man and woman, both in their 20s, were taken to the hospital for treatment. The man’s condition was assessed as life-threatening, while the woman’s injuries were described as life-changing.
IOPC Investigation
The IOPC has been notified and will be conducting an independent investigation to determine the circumstances leading up to the collision. The Met Police has stated that detectives are working to establish what happened during the chase and the events that led to the crash.
An IOPC spokesperson said:
“We can confirm that we are assessing a road traffic incident involving a car which was in collision with street furniture in west London this morning (Saturday 5 April).
“We were advised the collision took place at around 4.20am near Westbourne Terrace, Paddington following a short pursuit by a marked Met Police vehicle after the driver failed to stop for officers.
“A short time later it mounted the pavement and was in collision with street furniture. The two occupants of the car both suffered serious injuries and have been taken to hospital.
“After being notified by the force we sent investigators to the scene and to the police post incident procedure where the officers involved provided their initial accounts.
“We have requested further information from the force and once received, we will determine what further action may be required from us.”
Appeal for Witnesses
Police are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has information that could aid the investigation to come forward.
Members of the public can contact the Metropolitan Police on 101, quoting reference CAD 1279/5April. Alternatively, those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
Local residents have expressed concerns about the incident, with some questioning the speed and nature of police pursuits in residential areas. One witness, who wished to remain anonymous, stated:
“It was really shocking to see the aftermath. I hope the IOPC investigation brings clarity to what happened.”
The road remains partially closed as forensic officers continue to examine the scene. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
