IOPC to investigate circumstances behind fatal road accident
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has opened an investigation into the circumstances of a road accident in which a male died following a pursuit by officers from Hampshire Constabulary and Thames Valley Police.
The incident occurred at around 11pm on January 30 when officers from the two forces began pursuing a silver Ford Transit Connect on the A343. The vehicle left the carriageway and came to a rest in a field.
The driver, Robert Archer, aged 40, of Hythe, was confirmed dead at the scene by paramedics.
IOPC Regional Director Graham Beesley said: “Our thoughts are with the Mr Archer’s family and friends, and all those affected by this incident.
“We have contacted his family to explain our role and how our inquiries will progress. There is a mandatory requirement for forces to refer to us incidents like this which result in death or serious injury and our investigation will thoroughly examine the circumstances of the police involvement, including whether appropriate policies and procedures were followed.”
The IOPC has gathered initial accounts from the officers involved and begun to review police body-worn video footage, dashcam footage and CCTV from the area.
