IOPC to investigate incident where boy was hit by Police vehicle in Lancaster

The police watchdog has said it will "thoroughly examine" the circumstances that led to an 11-year-old boy being struck by a police van in Lancaster.

Lancashire Police said they were attending an emergency call when the collision occurred with the boy who was crossing Owen Road just before 8.30pm.

The boy was taken to Royal Lancaster Infirmary where he remains in a critical condition.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) said initial evidence indicates the officer driving had activated his emergency equipment at the time the collision occurred.

IOPC regional director Catherine Bates said: "This is an incredibly tragic incident and my thoughts are with the boy, his family and all those affected by the incident.

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

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