Teenager Fatally Struck After Taser Incident on M5 Motorway
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation following the tragic death of 18-year-old Logan Smith, who was struck by a vehicle shortly after being tasered by a police officer on the M5 in Somerset.
The Incident
The incident occurred around 11pm on Sunday when Mr Smith was being transported to a hospital by ambulance. The ambulance reportedly stopped on the hard shoulder due to concerns expressed by its staff.
According to the IOPC, Mr Smith exited the ambulance near the Weston-super-Mare junction and entered the active lanes of the motorway. A police officer arrived on the scene and deployed a Taser on the young man, causing him to collapse. Shortly thereafter, he was hit by a vehicle travelling on the southbound side of the motorway.
Police & IOPC Response
The IOPC is scrutinising the actions and decisions taken by Avon and Somerset Police leading up to Mr Smith’s death. Derrick Campbell, the IOPC Director, extended his condolences to Mr Smith’s family and friends, describing the situation as “shocking and tragic.”
In a bid to gather all pertinent information, IOPC investigators have already spoken to the officer involved as well as ambulance personnel. They have also met with Mr Smith’s family to explain their role in the investigation and the use of the Taser during the incident, promising to keep the family informed as the inquiry progresses.
Official Procedures
The coroner has been notified, and formal identification procedures and a post-mortem examination have been completed.
Background
This incident highlights ongoing debates surrounding police use of Tasers in the UK, particularly in non-life-threatening situations. The circumstances of Mr Smith’s death have raised questions about police procedures and the protocol for handling individuals in distress on busy motorways.
The investigation by the IOPC is essential to ensure transparency and accountability, serving to reassure the public about police conduct during critical incidents.
Source: Original Article
