9 police staff in chase death probe

Eight police officers and one member of civilian staff are under investigation after a teenager was run over and killed in a high-speed chase.

Matthew Seddon, 19, from Reading, Berkshire, crashed his Ford Fiesta into a central reservation on the A33 on February 11 as he was being pursued by officers from Thames Valley Police. He was thrown into the road and was hit by one of the police cars giving chase.

Today the watchdog I ndependent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) said eight officers from the force and one member of civilian staff had been issued with misconduct notices.

The notices mean they are under investigation for possible misconduct.

Commissioner Derrick Campbell said: "As the new Commissioner with responsibility for this investigation, I need to be confident we have thoroughly investigated the actions of those involved to fully understand the circumstances surrounding Matthew's death.

"During the course of this investigation it has become necessary to serve misconduct notices on eight officers and a member of police staff as there is an indication they may have behaved in a manner which would justify bringing disciplinary proceedings.

"We continue to keep Matthew's family informed of developments in this investigation and we are building up a picture of the events leading up to the collision.

"I would like to assure Matthew's family our investigation is painstakingly piecing together information which I hope will provide the answers they seek and deserve."

The IPCC passed a file to prosecutors in relation to a possible charge of careless driving against one officer, but the Crown Prosecution Service has said it will take no further action.