7 Jan 2013

Man charged over police crash chase

A man is charged over the death of a 13-year-old girl who was killed in a crash involving a car being chased by police.

The crash happened in South London on Sunday night (pic: Getty)

The crash took place in Ilderton Road, south Bermondsey, on Sunday night.

Newell has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, failing to stop at the scene of an accident, and driving with no insurance and no licence.

He will appear in custody by videolink at Camberwell Green Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

The teenager who died was travelling with her mother, father and four-year-old brother when their Volkswagen Polo and a Peugeot 308 that was being chased by a marked police car collided.

The girl, who was in the rear of the car, died at the scene from her injuries, Scotland Yard said.

Family taken to hospital

Her parents and brother were taken to hospital. The father remains in hospital, but his injuries are not life threatening. The mother and boy were discharged.

The male driver of the Peugeot was arrested and taken into custody. A female passenger was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

The incident happened just before 6.30pm and police, ambulance and fire crews attended.

The Metropolitan Police said the pursuing police car had its blue lights and siren on when the collision happened.

The pursuit started in Queens Road, Peckham, after the Peugeot triggered a number plate alert in a police vehicle.

Commander Tony Eastaugh said: “An innocent family are now dealing with the tragic loss of a loved one.

A thorough investigation

“The Metropolitan Police has now begun a thorough investigation into the circumstances of this terrible incident. The thoughts of our staff and officers are with the family at this time.”

Traffic police and officers from the Directorate of Professional Standards are investigating, the force said.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has also been informed and an investigator was at the scene assessing the circumstances of the collision.

A post-mortem examination is due to take place on the girl tomorrow. An inquest will open and adjourn in due course.