Metropolitan Police Officers Under Investigation Following Fatal Collision Involving Pregnant Woman

A criminal investigation is underway involving two Metropolitan Police officers following the deaths of a pregnant woman and her baby in a crash involving an unmarked police vehicle in south-east London. The 38-year-old woman, who was in the full-term of her pregnancy, was operating a vehicle that was struck by an unmarked police car on October 17 on the A20 in Eltham. Her vehicle was struck close to the intersection of Kidbrooke Park Road by one of two police vehicles that were en route to an unrelated call. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), the police watchdog, stated that the officers are under investigation for potential driving offences, which encompass causing death by dangerous driving. The IOPC also indicated that both officers are being investigated for potential gross misconduct proceedings. A third officer, who was a passenger in the vehicle involved in the collision, is facing investigation for potential misconduct. Mel Palmer, the regional director for the watchdog, commented: “The deaths of the woman and her baby are tragic, and our thoughts remain with her family and friends, and all of those affected.” She continued: “This was a devastating incident on a busy road and our investigators are working hard to establish all of the circumstances leading up to the collision and the actions of the officers involved.” Ms. Palmer further stated that upon the conclusion of the investigation, the IOPC will determine whether to submit a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service for consideration of potential criminal charges. The IOPC will also make a decision regarding whether any officers ought to face disciplinary proceedings. According to the IOPC, investigators have, to date, commissioned reports from forensic collision experts, gathered witness statements, and examined CCTV and dash cam footage. The deceased woman has been formally identified, however, her family has requested that her name not be released publicly. The London Ambulance Service, London Fire Brigade, and London’s Air Ambulance responded to the crash site at 18:15 BST on Thursday. The two officers who were occupants of the vehicle involved in the collision were transported to the hospital after the incident but were released a short time thereafter. Flowers and other tributes were placed at the location of the crash. One such tribute stated: “My deepest thoughts are with you, your baby and your family and friends.”The most awful tragedy that should never have happened and hope your family get some justice. RIP beautiful lady and your baby.” An inquest was scheduled to commence last week but has since been postponed.