Before being involved in a crash that killed two people on the M25, a van was seen driving on the wrong side of the motorway.
The incident took place just before 4am on Sunday, February 4, when Hertfordshire police officers spotted a white Citroen Dispatch on the M1, which had been reported as stolen.
A short time afterwards, the officers activated their vehicle’s lights and sirens in an attempt to stop the driver of the van.
After the vehicle failed to stop, a pursuit was initiated, but was later called off due to the risk of a collision being too high.
Shortly before 4am, on Breakspear Way, a second pursuit took place which was also abandoned.
A short time later, the van was then seen by a police officer travelling on the wrong side of the M25.
The officer followed the van on the correct side of the road but did not activate the vehicle’s lights or sirens.
At approximately 4.08am, the van was involved in a collision with three other vehicles on the M25 between junctions 21a and 22 (Watford and St Albans).
A man and a woman died as a result of the crash, with the driver of the van taken to hospital where they remain in a serious condition, according to the IOPC (Independent Office for Police Conduct).
Hertfordshire police confirmed that a man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.
A criminal investigation into the fatal crash is also being carried out by Essex Police.
IOPC investigators have since been sent to the scene to gather information, with their investigation "in the very early stages".
SUGGESTED READING
IOPC regional director Charmaine Arbouin said: “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragic incident.
"Given that police officers were pursuing one of the vehicles before the fatal collision, it’s important that we independently investigate the actions and decision-making of the officers involved.
“We will ensure that our enquiries do not impede the police investigation, and we will keep those involved regularly updated.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article