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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Katie Dickinson

Police watchdog investigates after teenage boy dies after falling off motorbike

Logan Stead, 16, died after coming off a motorbike in Pontefract, West Yorkshire - (PA)

The police watchdog has launched an investigation after a teenage boy died after falling off a motorbike which was about to be followed by officers.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said Logan Stead, 16, was riding a motorbike along Eastbourne Terrace in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, on 13 July.

Police said he came off the motorbike and died at the scene despite medical assistance from police and paramedics.

A 13-year-old boy who was also on the motorbike was uninjured.

The IOPC said the bike had been spotted by West Yorkshire Police officers shortly before the crash at 5pm.

They “had concerns about the age of the boys” and had turned around to catch up to the motorbike once it had travelled past them in the opposite direction.

The IOPC said there was no pursuit of the vehicle by officers before the crash.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said Logan Stead, 16, was riding a motorbike along Eastbourne Terrace in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, on 13 July (Getty Images)
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said Logan Stead, 16, was riding a motorbike along Eastbourne Terrace in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, on 13 July (Getty Images)

A spokesperson said: “Our investigation will be looking at the circumstances in the lead up to the collision.

“Our initial inquiries have established that officers had concerns about the age of the boys on the motorbike, although there was no pursuit of the vehicle by officers prior to the collision.

“As soon as WYP notified us of the incident, IOPC investigators went to the collision scene to begin gathering information.

“We declared an independent investigation on the same evening.”

IOPC director of engagement Emily Barry said: “Firstly, my thoughts and condolences are with the family of Logan and all those who have been affected by this tragic incident.

“We have contacted Logan’s family to explain our role and we will continue to update them as our inquiries progress.

“There is a mandatory requirement for forces to refer to us incidents like this, which result in death or serious injury, and our investigation will thoroughly examine the circumstances of the police involvement, including whether appropriate policies and procedures were followed.

“Whilst our investigation is in the early stages, investigators are in the process of obtaining accounts from the officers involved and working with the force to secure all available footage related to the incident.”

Police previously said the 13-year-old boy was arrested after the crash on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

On Tuesday, the force confirmed no further action will be taken against him.

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