WIREDGOV

We are carrying out an investigation into the actions of West Mercia Police prior to a collision in Droitwich, Worcestershire on Monday 27 April in which a 21 year-old man sadly died.

Marlon Vella was riding a Yamaha scooter on Primsland Way in Droitwich at around 4 pm that day, travelling in the same direction as a West Mercia Police vehicle that was responding to an emergency call in Worcester.

Mr Vella was travelling ahead of the marked police car when his scooter collided with a tree. The police car stopped and an ambulance was called but sadly he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The IOPC is appealing for any witnesses to the events to contact investigators on 0800 029 4686 or email primslandway@policeconduct.gov.uk

After being notified by West Mercia Police, we sent investigators to the scene that evening to begin gathering information and to monitor the police post-incident procedure, at which the officer driving gave an initial witness account. We have also undertaken a trawl for relevant CCTV footage.

IOPC regional director, Derrick Campbell, said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Vella’s family and friends and all of those affected by this tragic incident. There were a number of other road-users around on Primsland Way at the time and we would be grateful if any witnesses could come forward to assist with our independent investigation.

“Owing to the proximity of the police car at the time Mr Vella’s scooter crashed it is appropriate that we establish the full circumstances.”

The IOPC investigates the most serious road traffic incidents involving death and serious injury where police vehicles are being driven in in the proximity and for example on emergency response. Our investigations play a key role in securing public confidence in the police service by establishing what happened, ensuring individual accountability, and identifying any potential learning for individual forces or nationally.