IPCC to investigate police crash

An investigation into a crash involving a police patrol car is to be carried out by the Independent Police Complaints Commission(IPCC).

A 20-year-old motorcyclist broke his neck after crashing his bike while being pursued by police in Swindon in the early hours of 1 July.

The police patrol car is believed to have turned on its blue lights to get the motorcyclist to stop.

Wiltshire Police referred the matter to the IPCC on Wednesday.

In a statement the IPCC said: "The investigation will review the actions taken by Wiltshire Police prior to the decision to independently investigate using our own investigators.

"This review will look at actions in relation to the scene, any evidence seized, initial accounts taken and any witness details or statements taken."

The motorcyclist came off his bike in Poplar Avenue and was taken by ambulance to Great Western Hospital where he was diagnosed as having broken his neck in three places.

IPCC Commissioner for the South West Rebecca Marsh said: "This young man's injuries are very serious and we can only hope that he recovers. I am sure that this is a very difficult time for his family and friends.