Inquest Finds Drink-Driving Contributed to Heywood Man's Fatal Crash

An inquest jury has determined that Greater Manchester Police officers acted appropriately during a high-speed pursuit that ended in the fatal crash of 23-year-old Will Place in Rochdale on July 1, 2024. The incident occurred after Place, who had been drinking, ran a red light in front of a marked police van, prompting officers to initiate a chase.

The pursuit began at approximately 3:00 a.m. after Place left a local venue where he had watched an England soccer match. Officers reported that the vehicle reached speeds of up to 70 mph in 30 mph zones. However, police control instructed officers to discontinue the chase shortly after it began due to a lack of tactical pursuit resources. Despite this, Place lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the White Lion pub at the junction of Rochdale Road and York Street, resulting in a fire and partial building collapse.

During the inquest at Rochdale Coroner's Court, PC Sarah Hardman, who was driving the pursuing police van, explained that she activated her emergency lights and sirens after witnessing Place's reckless driving. She stated that the decision to pursue was proportionate at the time, and she believed it was her duty to attempt to stop the vehicle to prevent further danger. The chase was called off before the crash occurred, and she did not activate her body-worn camera as her focus was on driving safely.

The inquest also revealed that toxicology tests indicated Place's blood alcohol level was 163mg per decilitre, which is more than double the legal limit. Family members expressed their grief over his loss, with his mother, Beverley Place, describing him as a loving and thoughtful young man who had a promising future ahead of him.