A horrific police chase in Westminster ended in tragedy this week when a teenage driver fleeing officers caused a catastrophic crash, claiming the life of a pregnant mother of four.
The 16-year-old male suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was behind the wheel of a Volkswagen Polo that was being pursued by Metropolitan Police. The pursuit began after the vehicle was flagged for moving traffic violations.
According to witness statements and police reports, the teenager lost control of the vehicle on Lisson Grove, mounting the pavement and striking 37-year-old Zita Sukys and her friend. The impact was described as devastating by first responders at the scene.
Ms. Sukys, who was 22 weeks pregnant with her fifth child, suffered catastrophic injuries. Despite the efforts of emergency services, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Her unborn child could not be saved.
Her friend, a 56-year-old woman who was walking with her, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was rushed to hospital for treatment.
The teenage driver attempted to flee the scene on foot but was apprehended by pursuing officers a short distance from the wreckage. He has since been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and driving without a license or insurance.
Detective Chief Superintendent Helen Collier of the Metropolitan Police expressed her condolences, stating: "This is a truly heartbreaking incident that has resulted in the needless loss of a much-loved woman and her unborn child. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the wider community at this difficult time."
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the police pursuit, which is standard procedure in incidents of this nature.
The tragedy has sparked renewed discussions about police pursuit protocols and youth driving offences in urban areas. Local residents have described Lisson Grove as an accident blackspot, with several previous incidents reported along the same stretch of road.
Ms. Sukys's family have been informed and are receiving support from specially trained officers. A memorial has begun growing at the scene of the tragedy, with flowers and messages left by devastated friends and community members.
