WIREDGOV

An investigation found no evidence South Wales Police officers could have foreseen or prevented a fatal collision in Neath.

Our investigation, which concluded in January 2019, considered the actions of South Wales Police officers prior to a collision in which David Probert, 19, sustained fatal injuries.

An inquest held yesterday found Mr Probert died as a result of a road traffic collision.

CCTV shows Mr Probert left a shop in Briton Ferry Road on 29 August, 2018 at around 12.20am. He then drove his car off at speed without turning on his headlights. It is believed he had noticed police cars, which were on their way to an unrelated incident.

Our investigation found two of the police drivers followed Mr Probert onto Crythan Road but lost sight of him. Seconds later, Mr Probert’s vehicle collided with a house in Old Road. He sustained serious injuries in the collision and died later in hospital.

We found no evidence that the officers’ decision to follow Mr Probert influenced his manner of driving. At the time of the collision, he could not have known whether the police were following him.

The evidence indicates both police cars had their emergency lights on but not their sirens due to the time of day.

IOPC Director for Wales Catrin Evans yesterday said:

“My thoughts continue to be with Mr Probert’s family and friends at this difficult time.

 “There is no reason to believe that the collision could have been avoided if the officers had done anything differently. Their decision to follow Mr Probert meant that they were able to request an ambulance and provide first aid very soon after the collision occurred. Unfortunately, Mr Probert passed away due to the seriousness of his injuries.”