A BMW driver died after a four-car crash in East Sussex following a police pursuit, with seven other people taken to hospital. Police were called to the A21 at Robertsbridge at around 8.20pm on Saturday after the collision involving four vehicles.
The driver of the BMW, a 23-year-old man from Hailsham, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two passengers in another vehicle suffered serious injuries, while five others were treated for less serious injuries. A police spokesperson said: “The driver of the BMW – a 23-year-old man from Hailsham – was sadly declared deceased at the scene. His next of kin have been informed. Two passengers in another vehicle were taken to hospital with serious injuries, while five other people involved suffered minor injuries requiring hospital treatment.
“The BMW had been involved in a police pursuit shortly before the collision, and a referral was made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct who have declared that they will conduct an independent investigation.”
Detective Superintendent Andy Wolstenholme added: “This was a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the family of this young man and all those affected.
“An investigation is under way to understand the full circumstances and there will be increased police activity in the area while this is ongoing.
“I would like to thank the public for their patience during the emergency response and for their understanding as our enquiries continue.
“Anyone who has any information that could help the investigation, or relevant dashcam or CCTV footage, is asked to contact police online or via 101, quoting Operation Drummer.”
A spokesperson for the Independent Office for Police Conduct confirmed it is investigating Sussex Police’s involvement in the incident.
The police watchdog said: “Our investigation will look at police actions prior to the fatal collision.
“After being notified by the force, we sent investigators to the police post incident procedures to begin gathering evidence and declared an independent investigation.
“Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this incident.”