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

An inquest jury has concluded that Greater Manchester Police officers acted appropriately during a high-speed pursuit that ended in the fatal crash of 23-year-old Will Place on July 1, 2024. The incident occurred when Place's vehicle collided with the White Lion pub at the junction of Rochdale Road and York Street in Heywood, resulting in a traumatic head injury and fatal intracranial hemorrhage for the driver.

The pursuit began around 3:00 a.m. after Place, who had been drinking following an England soccer match, ran a red light in front of a marked police van. Officers activated their emergency lights and pursued him, reporting speeds of up to 70 mph in a 30 mph zone. However, police control instructed officers to discontinue the chase shortly after, due to a lack of tactical pursuit resources. Despite this, Place lost control of his vehicle and crashed into the pub just a minute later.

During the inquest at Rochdale Coroner's Court, PC Sarah Hardman, who was driving the pursuing police van, explained the decisions made during the chase. She stated that the pursuit was deemed proportionate at the time, and she had attempted to stop Place before the chase was called off. The officer noted that she did not activate her body-worn camera as her focus was on driving safely during the pursuit.

Family members of Will Place expressed their grief during the inquest, describing him as a loving and popular young man with a promising future. His mother, Beverley Place, highlighted the impact of his loss on their lives, stating that he was a thoughtful individual who had recently graduated in sports journalism and worked as a delivery driver. The inquest's findings have raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the chase and the actions of the police.