The police watchdog has confirmed that Cleveland Police officers ended their pursuit of a car roughly 10 seconds before it collided with another police car on the A66, killing seven people.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said on Sunday afternoon that it has now verified some of the circumstances leading up to the collision, which took place on the A66 in South Bank shortly after 3.30am on Saturday.
Investigation launched after mandatory referral
The IOPC declared an independent investigation on Saturday morning following a mandatory referral from Cleveland Police.
Doorbell footage appeared to show police pursuing a vehicle before the crash.
Initial accounts obtained
IOPC Director of Engagement Derrick Campbell said: "Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends and all those affected by yesterday’s collision. We recognise the devastating impact the incident has had on those in the force, and the wider policing community, and offer our condolences."
Campbell added: "We have obtained initial accounts of officers involved in the pursuit, the incident log and in car footage of the incident. Work is ongoing to obtain additional material."
"IOPC investigators will continue to review and analyse all the evidence that is available to us. We will not be providing any further comment at this time."
