Police watchdog investigates after teenage boy dies after falling off motorbike in Pontefract
A police watchdog has launched an investigation after a young boy died after falling off a motorbike that officers were about to follow.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said 16-year-old Logan Stead was riding a motorbike along Eastbourne Terrace in Pontefract, West Yorkshire, on July 13.
Police said he got off the motorcycle and died at the scene despite medical attention from police and paramedics.
The 13-year-old boy on the motorcycle escaped uninjured.
The IOPC said the bike was spotted by West Yorkshire Police officers at 5pm shortly before the crash.
They were “concerned about the age of the children” and turned back to catch up with the motorbike passing them in the wrong direction.
The IOPC said the vehicle was not being pursued by officers before the crash.
A spokesman said: “Our investigation will look at the circumstances leading up to the collision.
“Our initial investigations found that although the vehicle was not pursued by officers prior to the collision, officers were concerned about the ages of the children on the motorbike.
“As soon as WYP notified us of the incident, IOPC investigators went to the crash scene to begin gathering information.
“We launched an independent investigation that same evening.”
IOPC engagement director Emily Barry said: “Firstly my thoughts and condolences are with Logan’s family and everyone affected by this tragic incident.
“We have contacted Logan’s family to explain our role and will continue to update them as our investigations progress.
“There is a mandatory requirement for forces to report such incidents that result in death or serious injury to us and our investigation will thoroughly examine the circumstances in which police were involved, including whether appropriate policies and procedures were followed.
“While our investigation is still in its early stages, investigators are in the process of obtaining accounts from the officers involved and are working with the force to secure all available footage of the incident.”
Police had previously said the 13-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving after the crash.
On Tuesday the force confirmed no further action would be taken against him.
