Girl, 17, killed by car on M5 after getting out of police vehicle while being taken into custody
A 17-year-old girl has died after fleeing police and being struck by a car on a motorway.
The girl was being transported to custody when she got out of the stationary Avon and Somerset Police vehicle and was hit by a car on the M5 between Bridgwater and Taunton, in Somerset, at around 11pm on Monday.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that the girl had died at the scene, and her next of kin have been informed.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said it was investigating the incident. A spokesman for the watchdog said: “We have started an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 17-year-old girl who was struck by a vehicle on the M5 near Taunton last night.
“We were advised by Avon and Somerset Police that the girl was being transported to custody in a police vehicle and had got out of the vehicle shortly before the collision.
“We sent our investigators to the police post-incident procedure to begin gathering evidence. Our sympathies are with the girl’s loved ones and everyone affected by her death.”
Avon and Somerset Police said the girl’s next of kin were being supported by a specially trained officer.
A force spokesman said no one else had been injured in the collision, adding: “A mandatory referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to recent prior police contact.”
‘Thoughts are with the girl’s family’
National Highways confirmed that the motorway had reopened in both directions shortly after 11am on Tuesday.
Detective Chief Superintendent Rachel Shields said: “Our thoughts are, first and foremost, with the girl’s family. Overnight, we have updated her next of kin regarding what has happened and we will ensure they are supported by specially trained officers at what is an incredibly difficult time following the tragic loss of such a young life.
“We believe it is important that we are as transparent as possible at this early stage about the tragic circumstances.
“A critical incident was declared and our professional standards department notified overnight. A mandatory referral has been made to the IOPC, on the grounds of a death following police contact. The IOPC has decided to take on the investigation independently, and we welcome the oversight it will give.
“We recognise that this incident has had a significant effect on the devastated officers and members of the public who witnessed what happened, as well as other officers and staff involved in our response. We will ensure they are able to access any welfare support they may benefit from following this tragedy.”
Anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage is asked to contact Avon and Somerset Police on 101, with the log number 1170 of Nov 11.