An 18-year-old joyrider who died when the car he was travelling in hit a Volkswagen Passat, killing two police officers, was awaiting trial on charges of racially abusing and assaulting officers. Makai Saddington was one of five men in the VW Passat which sped the wrong way down the A66.
Charges and court appearance
Saddington was accused of assaulting a Sgt Rooker of Cleveland Police and causing racially aggravated alarm or distress to a Pc Chowdhury. He reportedly appeared before Teesside Magistrates' Court on July 17, and his case was adjourned to a later date.
The teenager appears to have posted clips on social media showing him in other police chases, the Daily Mail reports.
The crash and victims
Pc Matthew Blades, 37, and Pc Tom Clough, 38, were killed when the Volkswagen Passat hit their marked armed response vehicle. Cole Robert Worthy, 17, Theo Rae, 17, Saddington, and 23-year-olds Michael Robert Cahill and Jacob Matusiak were also pronounced dead at the scene in Teesside early on Saturday (August 22).
Cleveland Police officers initiated the chase after receiving intelligence relating to "numerous incidents" linked to a Passat. The car had activated an ANPR camera and is believed to have been using cloned plates, according to watchdog, the Independent Office for Police Conduct.
Family tributes and fundraising
Pc Blades and Pc Clough were not involved in the original pursuit, but had been called to the area to assist with the search for the vehicle. Family members described former Civil Nuclear Constabulary officer Pc Clough as "our hero" who was "always on public duty". The father-of-two’s family called him "our superhero" and said: "He gave his life in the line of duty, protecting and serving others with courage, dedication and selflessness."
In a statement issued by Cleveland Police, Pc Blades’ wife called him "my beloved husband, my best friend, and the most devoted father to our two young boys". She said he was "an adored son and brother, a perfect son-in-law, and the most fun uncle".
A fundraiser created by the Cleveland Police Federation on Sunday reached £228,000 early on Monday (August 24). Organisers said funds raised would be split equally between the two officers’ families and the federation would continue to provide support. A second crowdfunder for the families had raised more than £27,600. On Monday, a silent prayer vigil will be held at St John the Evangelist Church in South Bank.
