Two police officers injured after van 'rams' GMP car then overturns

The overturned van -Credit:Jaz Green/Shampooches
The overturned van -Credit:Jaz Green/Shampooches


Two police officers were injured after a van 'rammed' a liveried GMP car then flipped over onto its side after a pursuit.

Both officers are said to have received medical treatment at the scene in Leigh, Wigan, early on Saturday, with the extent of their injuries not further described.

A man, 33, was arrested at the scene. He's now due to be questioned in custody on suspicion of dangerous driving, driving without a license, and driving whilst under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

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Greater Manchester Police said an investigation was underway to trace a second man believed to have also been at the scene.

The force said officers were alerted by a member of the public, who reported a van being driven dangerously in Ince, Wigan, at around 7.40am.

In a statement, GMP said: "At 7.40am this morning, Saturday, we were called by a member of the public to reports of a man driving a van dangerously in Ince. To maintain the safety of the public, and bring this vehicle to a stop, a pursuit was authorised for our specially trained drivers.

The scene in Leigh -Credit:Jaz Green/Shampooches
The scene in Leigh -Credit:Jaz Green/Shampooches

"The vehicle collided with, and damaged, numerous vehicles belonging to members of the public. The vehicle then stopped and rammed police on Kendal Road, Ince, before making off.

"The van overturned in the process on Holden Road, Leigh, but thankfully no members of the public were injured. However, two of our officers reported injuries. They received further medical treatment at the scene.

"A 33-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of dangerous driving, driving without a license, and driving whilst under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Enquiries are ongoing to identify a second man we believe was present in the vehicle.

"We are appealing to any members of the public who may have witnessed this incident or have any information that could assist our enquiries. We are keen to speak to anyone who may have any footage, including dashcam, mobile phone or doorbell footage, from the area in the moments leading up to the collision.

"Please contact us on 101 quoting log 690 of 20/04/24. Information can also be shared anonymously by calling the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."