02 January 2006
For Immediate Release

IPCC to Manage Investigation into Derbyshire Police Collision

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) is to manage the investigation into a collision between a police vehicle and a pedestrian in New Mills, Derbyshire, yesterday morning (1 January).

At approximately 5.40 a.m. a number of police units were deployed to reports of a man carrying knives in Market Street.

During the incident the man attempted to get into an unlocked police car and then approached another police vehicle with which he was involved in a collision. Officers administered first aid at the scene and he was taken to Stepping Hill Hospital, Stockport where he underwent surgery for various injuries including knife wounds. He remains in hospital where his injuries are not life-threatening.

The incident was referred to the IPCC on 1 January and Deputy Senior Investigator, Bob Lilley, was deployed to carry out an assessment and monitor the inquiry by Derbyshire Constabulary.

Nicholas Long, IPCC Commissioner, said:

My understanding is that police negotiated with the man for a considerable period of time prior to the collision. Our investigators are working closely with Derbyshire Constabulary to investigate the details of the incident and are examining witness accounts and CCTV footage of the incident.

”I would urge anyone who was in the vicinity at the time of the incident to contact Derbyshire Constabulary on 0845 123 3333.”

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Notes for editors

  • The IPCC is the body with overall responsibility for the police complaints system in England and Wales. It has the task of increasing public confidence in the system and aims to make complaints investigations more open, timely, proportionate and fair.
  • The 17 Commissioners who run the IPCC guarantee its independence and by law can never have served as police officers. They are supported by 84 independent IPCC investigators, as well as case workers and specialist support staff.
  • Since April 1 2004 the IPCC has used its powers to begin 75 independent and 266 managed investigations into the most serious complaints against the police. It has also set new standards for police forces to improve the way the public's complaints are handled.   It has also upheld 439 appeals (out of 1329 valid appeals) by the public about the way their complaint was dealt with by the local force.
  • The IPCC is committed to getting closer to the communities it serves.  Its Commissioners and staff are based in IPCC regional offices in Cardiff, Coalville, London and Sale plus a sub office in Wakefield.   
  • The IPCC web site is constantly updated at www.ipcc.gov.uk or members of the public can contact the IPCC on 08453 002 002.

For further information please contact:

IPCC Duty Press Office on 07717 851157.