Inquests open into deaths of drivers in Stratford-upon-Avon police pursuit
Both drivers suffered major traumatic injuries during the police pursuit
The inquests has opened into the deaths of two people following a police pursuit in Stratford-upon-Avon.
Karen Joseph, 62, and Roman Kalas, 19, were killed when they collided with each other on August 24th, on Warwick Road.
The inquest, being held at Coventry Coroner's Court, was launched on Friday (Septmber 4th) before being adjourned.
Medical reports found that Karen, who had been driving a Ford Puma at the time of the crash had been critically injured but later died of multiple traumatic injuries.
Kalas, who had been driving a black Audi A3 died due to multiple traumatic injuries to his head and chest.
Warwickshire Police had been following the car for around six minutes before failing to stop, triggering a police pursuit on the A46.
He later travelled back toward Stratford on the A439 before the crash took place. Mrs Joseph was taken to hospital with critical injuries, before passing away on August 28th.
Separate inquests have been held for both Roman Kalas and Karen Joseph, both being attended by Patrick Cragg from the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC).
Speaking at both inquest openings, which lasted for five minutes each, Cragg said the IOPC investigation will last around six months.
He said investigators have retraced the route of the pursuit, identified potential CCTV footage and have gathered “detailed accounts” from officers involved.
At the end of Mr Kalas’s hearing, he said: “I formally open an inquest into the death of Roman Kalas, it will be heard in due course.
“I offer my condolences to all those who have been affected by the death of Mr Kalas.”
At the end of Mrs Joseph’s hearing, he added: “I formally open the inquest into the death of Karen Joseph and adjourn it pending receipt of the IOPC report and other evidence.
“I send my personal condolences to the family and friends of Mrs Joseph.”