Merseyside Police officer under investigation following M53 crash
A man suffered serious injuries in a collision involving a police vehicle and motorbike
A Merseyside Police officer is under criminal investigation following a collision on the M53 motorway that left a man critically injured.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the incident, which occurred on the slip road at junction two on 22nd March.
The collision involved a motorbike travelling the wrong way along the hard shoulder and a police vehicle.
At the time of the crash, the motorbike was being tracked by a police helicopter.
The IOPC revealed that the driver of the police vehicle is being investigated for potentially causing serious injury by dangerous driving.
The officer is also under investigation for possible gross misconduct concerning the way they were driving.
Amanda Rowe, the IOPC Director, emphasised the severity of the incident:
"This was a very serious incident which left a man in a critical condition in hospital. I am relieved to hear his condition has improved. However, he will continue to undergo treatment for his injuries."
"Given the circumstances, it is important for there to be a thorough and independent investigation so that we can fully understand events leading up to the collision."
"It is important to remember that serving notice on an officer does not necessarily mean that criminal or disciplinary proceedings will follow. On conclusion of the investigation, we will decide whether to refer the case to the Crown Prosecution Service, or if misconduct proceedings are required."
The IOPC is gathering evidence, including footage of the incident and a detailed statement from a police witness.
They have also reached out to several members of the public who may have witnessed the collision to assist with enquiries.