Two men have been arrested in Swindon after a driver crashed while attempting to flee police during a high-speed chase.
Pursuit Begins After “Over-Exuberant Driving”
Officers attempted to stop a silver Vauxhall Insignia at around 1:40 a.m. on Sunday, February 9, after witnessing what they described as “over-exuberant driving”.
The driver failed to stop after exiting the M4 onto Great Western Way at high speed, leading police to authorize a pursuit. Officers from traffic units and a dog unit joined the chase as the vehicle swerved across the carriageway.
Police also reported smelling cannabis coming from inside the vehicle during the pursuit.
Crash at Subway Entrance in Gorse Hill
The chase lasted for four miles before the suspect’s car crashed into a bollard at the entrance to a subway on Tydeman Street, Gorse Hill.
Both the driver and passenger attempted to flee on foot but were quickly detained by officers.
Driver Arrested, Passenger Charged with Drug Possession
A man was arrested on suspicion of:
- Dangerous driving
- Failing to stop for police
- Failing to provide a specimen for analysis
He has since been released on bail pending further investigation.
The passenger, Jahred Tafari, 25, of Beech Avenue, was charged with possession of cannabis and is scheduled to appear at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on March 19.
Ongoing Investigation
The Metropolitan Police have not disclosed whether additional charges will be filed. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the pursuit and crash.