Woman dies after being hit by police car in Oldham

A woman who died after she was hit by a police car as it chased a suspected stolen vehicle has been named as Heather Smedley.

The 53-year-old was struck at around 10am on Shaw Road in Royton, Oldham.

She was taken to hospital with serious injuries but died a short time later.

The incident has now been referred to Greater Manchester Police's Professional Standards Branch as well as the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Chris Bowen, Chief Superintendent of GMP’s Oldham district said: “Our sincere thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of the woman that has sadly passed.

“We understand that the public are concerned by incidents of this nature. In-line with normal procedure, referrals have been made to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch and the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

“Investigations like this often result in road closures which can cause significant disruption and we thank the local community and road users for their patience.”

An IOPC spokesperson said it is investigating whether police actions prior to the fatal collision were in line with policies and procedures.

“After being notified by Greater Manchester Police we deployed investigators to the scene and to the police post incident procedure to begin our inquiries,” they said.

“Initial accounts from police officers involved are being obtained.

“Our thoughts are with the woman’s family and friends at this awful time and all those affected by this tragic incident.

“Our investigation will examine the circumstances leading up to the collision and whether police actions were in accordance with policies and procedures.”

Anyone with information or dashcam footage should contact GMP quoting incident log 969 of 23/12/2022.

Information can be reported online or by using GMP's LiveChat function. If you can not report online, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.