Police watchdog launches ‘extensive’ investigation into crash which led to teen’s death, inquest hears

An ‘extensive’ investigation into a crash which led to the death of a teenager is being carried out by the police watchdog, a coroner has heard.

Devonte Scott, 18, was driving a Ford Fiesta which hit two cars after ‘failing to stop for police’ on May 16.

Mr Scott was pronounced dead at the scene.

A pre-inquest review was held at Stockport Coroners’ Court on Wednesday (August 11).

Coroner Chris Morris heard the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is carrying out an extensive investigation into the crash.

Mr Morris told the court he had received a report from Mr Scott’s GP, which showed he had no known medical conditions.

Sarah Evans, for the IOPC, told Mr Morris body warm camera footage was received last week.

The IOPC is compiling a report into the smash.

Mr Morris asked Ms Evans to confirm the current position of the IOPC’s investigation – and if Mr Scott was being chased by police.

She said: “It was a failure to stop.

“Officers were some 20-plus seconds behind Devonte. They never really got near him.

“They never behaved in a manner below the standards of professionalism, but I cannot take my final position until the report is done.”

Mr Morris asked Ms Evans to confirm that the full report will be available in November.

She said it will be completed when the results of toxicology and pathology reports have been returned.

Source: (Manchester evening news)