Two Metropolitan Police officers are under criminal investigation after a pregnant woman and her baby were killed after her car was struck by a police vehicle in south-east London.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said two unmarked vehicles had been travelling in Eltham, responding to an unrelated incident, when the incident happened.
A spokesperson from the IOPC said both vehicles had emergency equipment activated.
The 38-year-old woman, whose pregnancy was full-term, and her baby, died at the scene following the crash on the A20 near the junction with Kidbrooke Park Road on October 17.
Flowers at the scene near the A20 and Kidbrooke Park Road in Eltham
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The scene near the A20 and Kidbrooke Park Road in Eltham, south-east London
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Two police officers, who were driving both vehicles, have been placed under criminal investigation for potential driving offences, including causing death by dangerous driving, the IOPC said.
Both officers are also being investigated for potential gross misconduct. A third officer, a passenger in the vehicle involved in the collision, is being investigated for potential gross misconduct.
IOPC regional director Mel Palmer said: “The deaths of the woman and her baby are tragic, and our thoughts remain with her family and friends, and all of those affected.
“We have met with the woman’s family to explain our role and we will provide them with regular updates as our investigation progresses. The woman’s family have asked that their privacy is respected at this time.”
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Flowers at the scene near the A20 and Kidbrooke Park Road in Eltham, south-east London
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The scene near the A20 and Kidbrooke Park Road in Eltham, south-east London
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Palmer added: “This was a devastating incident on a busy road and our investigators are working hard to establish all of the circumstances leading up to the collision and the actions of the officers involved.
“At the end of our investigation we will decide whether to refer a file of evidence to the Crown Prosecution Service to consider possible criminal charges and also decide whether any officers should face disciplinary proceedings.”