On September 23, 2020, a high-speed police chase in Manchester ended in tragedy when Tommy Sharp, 29, and his passenger Paddy Connors, 36, died following a collision. Sharp was driving a speeding Mercedes that failed to comply with police commands to stop.
The pursuit began on Elton Street when police officers in an unmarked car with blue lights and sirens noticed the Mercedes traveling well above the speed limit. Sharp ran a red light and was recorded driving at 80 mph in a 30 mph zone. Approximately one minute after police activated their sirens, the Mercedes swerved into oncoming traffic.
The Mercedes collided head-on with two Volkswagen Passats, causing severe damage and injuries. Both Tommy Sharp and Paddy Connors succumbed to their injuries. Additionally, three occupants of the Volkswagen vehicles sustained serious injuries. Police officers at the scene performed CPR on Sharp and Connors before paramedics arrived. Sharp was taken to hospital but died shortly afterward, while Connors was pronounced dead at the scene.
On February 1, 2023, an inquest concluded that the police pursuit was “legitimate and proportionate.” The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) completed an investigation in April 2021, finding that officers adhered to all protocols throughout the incident.
Catherine Bates, IOPC Regional Director, stated: “Any loss of life is a tragedy, and our thoughts are with the men’s family and loved ones, as well as all those affected by this deeply distressing incident. Our investigation was thorough and independent. The officers acted according to their training and policies, using an appropriate vehicle for pursuit. I’d also like to commend the officers who worked so hard to save Mr Sharp and Mr Connors’ lives immediately after the collision.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
