A young driver fleeing from a police pursuit this morning, has caused a 70-year-old woman to collide with multiple vehicles on the M4.
Police officers from the North Dedicated Crime Team spotted a vehicle which was believed to be stolen on the A419 shortly after 10am today, 13 June.
Pursuing the vehicle, the driver continued on to the M4 eastbound towards London until police could bring it to a safe stop.
However, during the pursuit, the 17-year-old driver made contact with police vehicles in a bid to avoid being stopped.
As a result of his actions, a 70-year-old female driver collided with a number of other vehicles. She sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene before going to Great Western Hospital as a precaution.
When the vehicle was stopped, the male was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle. Another man made off from the scene and despite attempts to locate him, he remains outstanding.
The stolen vehicle has been recovered, and a large quantity of cash, a lock knife and a quantity of cannabis was seized from inside.
An address linked to the 17-year-old male was later searched in Swindon and a suspected stolen moped was recovered, as well as further cash, and a quantity of suspected class A drugs. A 47-year-old man at the address was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs.
Both remain in custody at Gablecross at this time.
PC Matt Barnett said: “It was a difficult situation to bring to a conclusion. The driver failed to stop for police and caused a collision as a result. Fortunately nobody was seriously injured.
“The M4 was closed for a short period of time causing an inconvenience to members of the public. We would like to thank the public for their patience whilst we dealt with this incident.
“One of the occupants of the vehicle made off on foot across two live lanes of traffic and still remains outstanding. Our enquiries are continuing and we would ask if anyone has information about the whereabouts of this man to contact Wiltshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
