Independent investigation after rider dies in collision following pursuit in Mansfield

18 Sep 2020 03:03 PM

We are independently investigating the circumstances of a pursuit involving Nottinghamshire Police following which a motorcyclist was fatally injured in a collision in Mansfield.

The collision on Berry Hill Lane, happened at around 2.50pm on Sunday 6 September and involved a motorcycle ridden by Declan Toyne (known locally as Dec Smedley) and a white Fiat van. Mr Toyne, who was aged 24, was taken to hospital with serious injuries and, sadly, died later the same day.

The incident was referred to us by Nottinghamshire Police as we understand that shortly before the collision the motorcycle had been pursued along with another motorcycle and a quad bike after failing to stop for an unmarked police car.

Regional Director for the Independent Office for Police Conduct, Derrick Campbell, recently said:

“I would like to extend my sympathy to the family of Mr Toyne and everyone else affected by his death.

“There is a mandatory requirement for forces to refer to us incidents like this which result in death or serious injury. We are now in the early stages of an investigation which will thoroughly examine the circumstances of the pursuit and whether appropriate policies and procedures were followed.

“We have met with Mr Toyne’s family to explain our role and we will keep them regularly updated on our progress.”  

IOPC investigators have already begun gathering evidence including video footage from the police car involved in the pursuit and police radio transmissions during the incident.