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IOPC investigation under way after fatal road collision in Whitehaven

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

All IOPC reports
Published
2025-01-24
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Cumbria Constabulary

What was investigated

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating a fatal road traffic incident in Whitehaven involving Cumbria Police officers. The incident occurred while officers were responding to an emergency call, resulting in the death of the driver of a Suzuki Celerio.

Key findings

  • The incident involved three officers responding to an emergency call.
  • The second police vehicle collided with a member of the public's vehicle.
  • The driver of the Suzuki sadly died in hospital after the collision.
  • An officer has been notified they are under criminal investigation.
  • The same officer is being investigated for potential gross misconduct.
  • Dashcam footage and body worn video are being reviewed.
  • The IOPC declared an independent investigation shortly after notification.
  • A dog was also involved in the incident and sadly died.

Outcome

The investigation is ongoing, and a determination regarding potential misconduct proceedings will depend on the evidence gathered.

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.