Collision with pedestrian - Metropolitan Police Service, December 2017

On 26 December 2017 Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) officers were responding to reports of an assault by a man at supported accommodation for people living with mental health issues. There was also mention of a firearm. On their way to the incident, in east London, their police car collided with a woman at a pedestrian crossing, which left her with serious, non-fatal injuries.

Our investigators attended the scene and conducted a detailed examination. We obtained witness statements from the police officers who were driving, police officers who later attended the scene, and members of the public who were at the scene at the time. We also obtained CCTV footage that showed the collision, and radio transmissions relating to the collision. We reviewed the Incident Data Recorder downloaded from the police car, and obtained a full collision report.

Evidence showed that the police car had initially been travelling at 59mph in a 20mph zone while responding to an incident requiring an immediate response. The Incident Data Recorder confirmed that the vehicle’s emergency equipment (front and rear blue lights and siren) were on for the last 880 metres before the accident occurred. Officers stated the light was green for them on the approach to the junction, which was supported by the evidence available. The police driver did not see the pedestrian until she had begun to walk into the road, and braked and reduced speed prior to impact.

Based on the evidence available we found no indication any police officer had behaved in a manner that would justify the bringing of disciplinary proceedings or had committed a criminal offence.

After reviewing our report, the MPS agreed.