In a tragic incident in the early hours of Monday, 25 September, a collision involving a motorcycle, a taxi, and street furniture has resulted in the death of the motorcycle’s rider. The incident occurred during a police pursuit in the heart of London.
At approximately 6.45am, two officers on patrol, riding marked police motorcycles, observed a motorcycle disregarding a red traffic signal on Oxford Street. In response to this violation, the police officers attempted to stop the motorcycle. However, the motorcycle did not comply with the police’s signal and continued its path.
The motorcycle, occupied by two males, was subsequently pursued by the police and continued into Tottenham Court Road. Tragically, a short time later, the motorcycle was involved in a collision with a taxi and street furniture, located near Warren Street tube station.
Promptly, the police officers at the scene administered first aid to both individuals on the motorcycle before the arrival of ambulance personnel. Despite their dedicated efforts, the rider of the motorcycle succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are now providing support to the grieving family of the deceased.
In a startling development, it was revealed that the pillion passenger of the motorcycle was in possession of a machete at the time of the incident. Subsequently, the passenger was arrested and has been transported to a hospital to receive treatment for injuries sustained to their leg and arm.
In response to the tragic events, the Metropolitan Police’s Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) has initiated an investigation into the incident, working alongside colleagues from the Met’s Roads and Transport Policing Command. Furthermore, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been notified and is commencing an independent investigation to ensure transparency and impartiality in examining the circumstances surrounding this incident.