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IOPC investigation into Avon and Somerset Police actions following the death of a teenager on the M5

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2025-12-05
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Avon and Somerset Police

What was investigated

The IOPC is investigating the actions and decisions taken by Avon and Somerset Police before the death of a teenager on the M5. The teenager exited an ambulance and was struck by a car after a Taser was discharged by an officer attempting to engage with him.

Key findings

  • The incident involved an 18-year-old being taken to hospital.
  • The ambulance stopped on the M5 due to concerns from staff.
  • The teenager exited the ambulance and entered live lanes of traffic.
  • Police were called for assistance and an officer arrived shortly after.
  • Body-worn footage showed the officer attempted engagement before using the Taser.
  • The teenager fell and was struck by a car soon after the Taser was used.
  • Emergency first aid was administered but the teenager died at the scene.

Outcome

An independent investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the Taser use.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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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.