Officers involved in a chase which ended in the death of an teenager acted in accordance with all policies and procedures, according to a watchdog.

Devonte Scott smashed a Ford Fiesta into two cars on Urmston Lane, Stretford, on May 16 of last year.

Stockport Coroner's Court last week heard how the car was stolen around a month earlier, although the 18-year-old was not responsible for its theft.

Devonte drove off at up to 100mph after officers in an unmarked vehicle tried to stop him for speeding.

After a short time, the car smashed into two others on Urmston Lane, around the area of Ryecroft Road, trapping the teenager inside after it flipped.

The officers arrived on the scene around 20 seconds later and called for assistance, but Devonte died as a result of his injuries. Another driver who sustained injuries was taken to hospital as a precaution.

As well as an inquest at Stockport Coroner's Court, which determined the death was due to a road traffic collision, the incident also led to an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

Investigators attended the scene itself and obtained footage from bodycam and CCTV, as well as statements from officers and members of the public.

The investigation established the driver of the unmarked vehicle was authorised to be involved in a chase and trained to an advanced level.

Their presence might have affected Devonte, but their involvement was in accordance with all policies and procedures, investigators said.

Catherine Bates, regional director at the Independent Office for Police Conduct, said: "This was a tragic incident in which a young man lost his life and our thoughts remain with his family, friends and all those affected.

"Our investigation found the officers involved were appropriately trained and driving in accordance with force and national policies during the pursuit.

"The evidence we gathered was provided to the coroner to assist with the inquest proceedings, which we hope has helped to answer some of the family's questions about the day."


This article was written by Jack Tooth. Jack is the reporter for The Messenger and covers anything and everything from within the Metropolitan Borough of Trafford.

To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.