A man who tragically died after being struck by a West Midlands Police car responding to an emergency call has been formally named as Roger Bagnall, a 40-year-old father of two from Birmingham.
The fatal collision occurred at around 7pm on Wednesday, March 19, on Yardley Road in Acocks Green, as the marked double-crewed police vehicle was responding to a 999 call following reports of a man seen carrying knives in the area.
Mr Bagnall, who lived locally, was crossing the road at the time of the incident. He sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead shortly afterwards, despite the efforts of emergency responders.
Investigation Underway
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident and is appealing to the public for information. The watchdog has confirmed that its appeal has brought some success, with several witnesses coming forward.
In a statement, the IOPC said:
“Our thoughts remain with Mr Bagnall’s family and all those affected by this tragic incident. We are continuing to gather evidence and would still like to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or has dash cam footage from the area at the time.”
The officers involved in the incident are said to be cooperating fully with the investigation, and the police car has been removed from the scene for forensic examination.
Community in Mourning
Tributes have poured in from the local community, with friends and neighbours describing Mr Bagnall as a “devoted father” and a “gentle, kind-hearted man.” Flowers and messages have been left at the scene of the collision, and a candlelight vigil is being planned in his memory later this week.
One neighbour said:
“Roger was a lovely man who adored his children. It’s heartbreaking to know he lost his life in such a way.”
Call for Witnesses
The IOPC continues to urge anyone with information, including CCTV or dash cam footage from around Yardley Road, Acocks Green, at approximately 7pm on 19 March, to come forward to assist with the investigation.
Anyone with relevant information can contact the IOPC directly through their website or by calling their witness appeal line.
More updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
