Investigation underway following fatal South Wales road traffic incident

21 Sep 2018 11:35 AM

An investigation has begun into South Wales Police actions prior to a fatal road traffic incident in Neath, South Wales.

David Probert, 19, died after his vehicle collided with a property in Old Road on 29 August. Early indications suggest Mr Probert noticed the presence of police cars in Briton Ferry Road after exiting a shop and drove his Ford Focus at speed into Crythan Road.

The South Wales Police vehicles, which were in the area for an unrelated incident, proceeded to follow the Ford Focus. Our investigation has found no indication of direct contact between any of the police cars and the Ford Focus.

Shortly after, officers came across the scene of the collision. An ambulance was called and Mr Probert was taken to hospital in a critical condition. He died from his injuries on Saturday 1 September.

Director for Wales Catrin Evans said: “My thoughts are with Mr Probert’s family and friends and everyone affected by his death.

“Our investigation will look at the actions of South Wales Police prior to the collision and whether any pursuit took place. We have begun gathering evidence including CCTV, dash cam footage and have begun obtaining initial accounts from the officers involved.

“We have made contact with Mr Probert’s family and will continue to keep them, South Wales Police and the coroner informed of our progress.”

South Wales Police referred the incident on 29 August and an independent investigation began on 3 September.