Pursuit death investigated
An investigation has been launched following a pursuit that led to the death of a driver.
Kieron O’Brien, 38, died on August 9 more than a week after colliding with a wall in Runcorn at the end of an 18-minute chase involving Cheshire Constabulary officers.
Mr O’Brien was taken to Aintree Hospital in a critical condition, was transferred to a centre specialising in neurology, but his life support has now been switched off.
Cheshire Constabulary referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which has begun an independent investigation.
Initial discussions have also taken place with the coroner’s office and a post mortem examination will be carried out as soon as possible.
IOPC regional director Amanda Rowe said: “Our investigation will look at all circumstances related to the pursuit, including the decision making by Cheshire Constabulary and what happened during the period when the car was followed.
“We have gathered evidence such as dash cam footage from the police vehicles involved in the pursuit. We will also conduct house to house enquiries near where the incident took place.”
She added: “Our thoughts are with Mr O’Brien’s friends and family, and anyone affected by this incident.”