An investigation has been launched after a teenager was tasered by a police officer on the M5 motorway before being struck and killed by a car. The incident, which occurred in November last year, is now under scrutiny by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
Incident Details
Logan Smith, 18, from Weston-super-Mare, was being transported to hospital in an ambulance on the night of November 30. At approximately 11pm, the ambulance pulled over on the hard shoulder of the northbound M5 near the junction for Weston-super-Mare due to concerns raised by the crew. Mr Smith then exited the vehicle and entered the live lanes of the motorway.
An Avon and Somerset Police officer attempted to engage with Mr Smith on the motorway. According to the IOPC, the officer discharged their Taser, causing Mr Smith to fall to the ground. He was then hit by a car traveling on the southbound carriageway and died from his injuries.
Misconduct Investigation
The IOPC has launched a misconduct probe focusing on whether the tactical options, including the use of the Taser, were proportionate and reasonable. The investigation will also determine if relevant training and policies were followed. A report from an independent Taser expert has been commissioned and shared with Mr Smith's family and Avon and Somerset Police.
IOPC director Derrick Campbell expressed condolences to Mr Smith's family, stating: "Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Logan’s family and friends. We understand the profound impact losing Logan has had on his loved ones and we want to reassure everyone that we are carrying out a thorough and independent investigation into the circumstances leading to his death."
The potential misconduct relates to the officer's decision to use the Taser, and it is also alleged that the officer failed to carry out a pre-discharge check as required by Avon and Somerset Police protocol.
Police Response
Following the incident, Avon and Somerset Police stated that the on-duty officer had attempted to bring Mr Smith to safety to reduce the risk to him and other members of the public. Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall said at the time: "This incident has had a significant effect on our officers and ambulance crews who are understandably incredibly upset by what happened. As well as providing support to the man’s family, we are also making sure that the appropriate welfare arrangements are in place for our staff and also for those members of the public who were either directly involved or who witnessed the incident."
The IOPC continues to update Mr Smith's family, the force, and the coroner on the progress of the investigation.
