A high-speed police pursuit through the streets of Stoke-on-Trent ended in a serious crash and multiple injuries, prompting renewed concern over road safety and criminal activity in the area.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 18, following the theft of a car via an alleged fraudulent online payment. Staffordshire Police confirmed that a 36-year-old man from Stoke-on-Trent has been arrested and remains in custody.
How It Unfolded: From Online Scam to Dangerous Chase
The vehicle, flagged as stolen on Monday, March 17, had been sold online — but the seller quickly reported the transaction as suspicious. Detectives believe the buyer used fraudulent means to obtain the vehicle, sparking a region-wide search.
Police spotted the car in Bucknall the following day, but when officers signalled the driver to pull over, he fled — initiating a dangerous pursuit through residential streets.
The chase came to a sudden end when the stolen vehicle collided with another car on Corneville Road. Emergency services were immediately dispatched. Paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service treated three people from the struck vehicle, all of whom were transported to hospital. Fortunately, their injuries were described as non-life-threatening and non-life-changing.
Arrest and Charges
The suspect was arrested at the scene and is facing a string of serious charges, including:
- Dangerous driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs
- Fraud
- Driving without a licence or insurance
- Failing to stop for police
Staffordshire Police said the man remains in custody while investigations continue.
Public Reaction: Relief, Concern, and Frustration
Local residents took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to voice mixed feelings. One user wrote, “Glad he’s off the roads — but these chases are terrifying in our neighbourhoods.”
Another commented, “How do you even manage to break so many laws in one go? The roads need more protection.”
In response to the incident, Staffordshire Police have increased patrols in Bucknall and surrounding areas, aiming to provide reassurance and gather further intelligence.
Wider Context: A Growing Crime Trend
The case reflects a broader national issue. Home Office figures from 2023 reported an 8% rise in vehicle thefts, many linked to online scams and fraudulent sales. In Staffordshire alone, dangerous driving offences rose by 5% in 2024, indicating a troubling local trend.
Experts warn that such cases often involve repeat offenders or individuals with links to wider criminal networks.
Balancing Crime Prevention with Public Safety
While police insist that such pursuits are necessary to catch dangerous suspects, road safety campaigners warn of unintended risks. A Police Foundation study in 2022 called for stricter national guidelines on high-speed chases, noting that they often escalate low-level offences into major public safety incidents.
What Happens Next?
The arrested man could face formal charges within days. Police are appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage from the Corneville Road area between 4pm and 6pm on March 18.
Anyone with information is urged to call Staffordshire Police on 101, quoting Corneville Road Collision or report anonymously via Crimestoppers.
As the community waits for updates, the incident serves as a stark reminder to exercise caution with online vehicle sales — and the critical role local policing plays in keeping streets safe.
