A police officer is on trial at Bristol Crown Court, accused of causing death by dangerous driving following a high-speed pursuit that ended in a fatal collision. PC Matthew Pike, 40, reached speeds of up to 93mph while chasing a Volkswagen Tiguan driven by Lewis Griffin through Bristol city centre on the night of November 4, 2021. The chase culminated in a crash with a Honda Jazz driven by Dr. Keryl Johnson, 35, who died from her injuries 11 days later.

High-Speed Pursuit Through City Streets

The pursuit began in Totterdown and wound through Bristol's city centre, with both vehicles reportedly exceeding speed limits and running red lights. Forensic experts used CCTV footage to determine that Pike's unmarked BMW police car reached speeds between 49mph and 93mph, while Griffin's vehicle was clocked at similar speeds. The prosecution, led by Jocelyn Ledward KC, contends that although Griffin's driving was the "primary and immediate cause" of the crash, Pike's driving was also "dangerous and contributed" to the tragic outcome.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Pike, who has received advanced police driving training, is charged with causing death by dangerous driving and an alternative charge of causing death by careless driving. He denies both charges. The court was shown CCTV footage of the pursuit and the collision, which was captured on a taxi's dashcam. Following the crash, Pike provided aid to Dr. Johnson until emergency services arrived, while his colleague pursued and arrested Griffin.

Courtroom Testimonies and Evidence

During the trial, the jury heard that Pike's actions were in line with his duties as a police officer, acting "bravely, professionally and selflessly" in the immediate aftermath of the crash. The court also learned that Griffin's vehicle had no outstanding reports and was legally insured and taxed. The trial continues as the court examines the evidence and testimonies presented.