Fatal Gateshead crash referred to prosecutors by police watchdog

The police car was travelling with its blue lights on, the police watchdog said

A crash involving a police car and a motorbike in which a woman died has been referred to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) by the police watchdog.

The rider and passenger were struck by a Northumbria Police vehicle near the Metrocentre, Gateshead, in July 2022.

Passenger Muriel Pinkney, 74, died in hospital from her injuries days later.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said a disciplinary hearing for gross misconduct will also be arranged at a later date.

It began an investigation following a referral from Northumbria Police after the crash, which happened at about 15:00 BST on 8 July.

• Motorbike passenger dies after police car crash

The driver of the police vehicle, a police constable, was interviewed by the IOPC under criminal caution for potential driving offences and was also served with a notice of investigation for gross misconduct.

IOPC regional director Emily Barry said: "Following thorough and careful analysis of all the evidence, we have decided there is an indication an officer may have committed a criminal offence in relation to the manner of their driving and a file has been referred to the CPS."

The male motorbike rider was also taken to hospital after sustaining multiple fractures to his leg, hip, and pelvis.

He has since continued to recover from his injuries, the IOPC said.