A police officer has been released after being acquitted of a charge of causing death by careless driving.
On November 5, 2021, the driver of a Honda Jazz died from her injuries after a collision with a VW Tiguan near Cabot Circus in Bristol. The Tiguan had been travelling at high speed while being pursued by an unmarked police vehicle, driven by PC Matthew Pike.
The driver of the Tiguan failed to stop and raced away from the police car, eventually crashing into the Honda. In February 2024, he was jailed for eight years and banned from driving for ten years for causing death by dangerous driving.
PC Pike’s conduct during the incident was investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), leading to the CPS charging him with causing death by dangerous driving and the alternative charge of causing death by careless driving.
His case was brought before a judge at Bristol Crown Court on January 21, 2026, after a four-year wait. Following expert evidence by a prosecution witness, the judge dismissed the case against Pike, on grounds of insufficient evidence. The court acknowledged that his actions on the day were in line with his police training and professional conduct. Had he been found guilty, he could have faced a substantial custodial sentence.
If you are under investigation for a serious motoring offence such as causing death by dangerous driving, solicitors can provide you with the expert advice and support you need as your case progresses. Contact us at Auriga Advocates now and get the support you need.