Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC - formerly IPCC)
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Investigation started following the death of Michelle Savage and Heather Whitbread

We are examining how Sussex Police handled previous contact with Michelle and Craig Savage prior to her death.

Sussex Police was contacted at about 7.25pm on Friday 16 March regarding the theft of a firearm and ammunition from 1066 Target Sports Club in Hastings. Approximately 20 minutes later, police were called to a residential address in Bexhill Road following a report of shots being fired.

When officers attended the address, shortly after 8pm they discovered Michelle Savage and her mother Heather Whitbread had been fatally injured.

A man was arrested and has been charged with their murders.

Sussex Police informed us of the incident and an independent investigation has begun.

Our investigators have obtained records of the contact between Michelle and Craig Savage and Sussex Police between 26 February and 16 March and analysed Sussex Police’s policies and guidelines.

Our team has made contact with the family of Michelle Savage and Heather Whitbread to explain our role and regular updates will be provided to them throughout the investigation. We have also liaised with HM Coroner. Inquests were opened and adjourned on 22 March.  

IOPC Regional Director Sarah Green, said:  

“The deaths of Michelle and her mother Heather are a tragedy and my thoughts are with their family, friends and all those affected by their loss.

“It is important we establish the facts surrounding whether the actions of police staff and police officers were appropriate and in keeping with training and policy. 

“As has been widely reported, Sussex Police is separately conducting a murder investigationand a man has been charged with murder and remanded in custody. Therefore it would be inappropriate for us to make any further comment at this time.” 

Craig Savage has been charged with the murders of Michelle Savage and Heather Whitbread.

 

Channel website: https://policeconduct.gov.uk/

Original article link: https://policeconduct.gov.uk/news/investigation-started-following-death-michelle-savage-and-heather-whitbread

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