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Investigation underway into police actions prior to fatal M25 collision

Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.

All IOPC reports
Published
2024-02-09
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Hertfordshire Constabulary

What was investigated

We are investigating the involvement of Hertfordshire Constabulary officers prior to a fatal road traffic collision on the M25 where two people died, on Sunday 4 February. At approximately 4.08am, the van was involved in a collision with other vehicles on the M25 between junctions 21a and 22.

Key findings

  • Police officers saw a stolen van traveling on the M1 before initiating a pursuit.
  • The pursuit was abandoned due to high risk after the driver failed to stop.
  • A subsequent pursuit on Breakspear Way was also abandoned.
  • The van was seen traveling on the wrong side of the M25 by a police officer.
  • The officer did not activate lights or sirens while following the van before the collision.
  • The collision occurred between junctions 21a and 22 of the M25.
  • Two people have died as a result of the collision.
  • The driver of the van is in serious condition.

Outcome

An independent investigation into the actions and decision-making of the officers involved is underway. The IOPC will ensure their enquiries do not impede the police investigation.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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Reviewed by the BlueLineHub Editorial Team
Last reviewed: 13 July 2026 · Next review due: 13 January 2027

This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-13.