Witness Appeal Following High-Speed Pursuit in Corsham Area
On October 1, 2023, a dramatic fail-to-stop incident unfolded in the Corsham area, prompting Wiltshire Police to issue an urgent appeal for witnesses and dash cam footage. The incident, which occurred between 1 PM and 2 PM, involved a high-speed chase that spanned several picturesque villages, ultimately culminating in a successful police intervention.
The Pursuit Begins
The chase began in Yatton Keynell, where officers first attempted to stop a vehicle that was behaving suspiciously. As the pursuit continued, the vehicle sped through the charming villages of Castle Combe and Acton Turville, creating a dangerous situation for both the occupants and other road users. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the vehicle traveling at alarming speeds, with police later confirming that it reached over 110 mph on the hard shoulder of the M4 motorway.
A Dangerous Escape
The vehicle’s reckless driving raised serious concerns about public safety. As it approached Junction 18 of the M4, the Roads Policing Unit took over the pursuit, employing advanced tactics to bring the situation under control. The officers deployed a stinger device, a spike strip designed to puncture tires and safely immobilize vehicles. This decisive action successfully halted the fleeing vehicle in Hullavington, allowing officers to apprehend the suspects without further incident.
Arrests Made
Upon stopping the vehicle, police arrested both occupants at the scene. The driver, a man in his 30s, faces multiple charges, including dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, possession of cocaine, and drug driving. He has since been released under investigation while awaiting the results of blood tests that will determine the presence of drugs in his system.
The passenger, a 16-year-old girl, was also arrested on suspicion of possession of a Class A drug. She has been released on bail as the investigation continues. The involvement of a minor in this incident raises additional concerns about the circumstances surrounding the case and the potential implications for youth safety in the area.
Call for Public Assistance
In light of the serious nature of this incident, Wiltshire Police are actively seeking assistance from the public. They are particularly interested in any dash cam footage that may have captured the pursuit or any relevant information regarding the vehicle and its occupants. Such footage could prove invaluable in piecing together the events leading up to the chase and ensuring that justice is served.
If you witnessed the incident or have any information that could assist the investigation, you are encouraged to contact Wiltshire Police by calling 101 and quoting reference number 54240115676. Alternatively, information can be reported through the Wiltshire Police website.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and the importance of community vigilance in reporting suspicious behavior. As the investigation unfolds, the cooperation of the public will be crucial in ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. Wiltshire Police are committed to maintaining safety on the roads and rely on the support of the community to achieve this goal.