A police officer from Avon and Somerset Police, PC Matthew Pike, has been brought before Bristol Magistrates’ Court on charges of causing death by dangerous driving. The accusations stem from a fatal crash that occurred during a pursuit, resulting in the death of Keryl Johnson. Pike, 38, faces the alternative charge of causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving. During the court appearance, Pike confirmed his identity but did not enter pleas for either charge. The incident took place in Newfoundland Circus, Bristol city centre, on November 5, 2021.
According to reports, PC Pike was in an unmarked police vehicle following a Volkswagen Tiguan that had failed to stop for the police. The pursuit led to a collision between the Volkswagen Tiguan and a Honda Jazz, tragically resulting in the death of the Honda Jazz driver, Keryl Johnson. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) revealed that the incident prompted a thorough investigation following a referral from Avon and Somerset Police in November 2021.
After an investigation conducted by the IOPC, the case was forwarded to the Crown Prosecution Service, leading to charges being laid against PC Matthew Pike. The court has scheduled a trial at Bristol Crown Court on October 4, with Pike granted unconditional bail until then. District Judge Joanna Dickens instructed Pike to attend the trial at the Crown Court in Bristol.
The allegations against the police officer have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding the pursuit and subsequent collision. The tragic outcome has led to legal proceedings that will further examine the events that led to the loss of life. The court process will provide an opportunity to assess the actions of PC Pike and determine legal accountability for the unfortunate incident.
The case highlights the complexities and responsibilities involved in police pursuits and underscores the potential risks and consequences inherent in such operations. As the legal proceedings progress, questions surrounding accountability, public safety, and police conduct during pursuits are likely to remain at the forefront of discussions. The trial scheduled for October will shed more light on the events leading up to the fatal crash and the role of PC Matthew Pike in the tragic outcome.