Police not to blame for fleeing biker crashing into tree

Police have been cleared of blame after a disqualified motorcyclist crashed into a tree and suffered serious injuries.

A man ignored police orders to stop just after midnight on June 26 in Aberdeen.

The 28-year-old and his pillion passenger were then pursued for 20 minutes around the city.

During the pursuit, officers used blue lights and sirens in an attempt to bring the vehicle to a stop.

The motorcyclist continued to ride dangerously, significantly exceeding the speed limit on numerous occasions.

Both he and the passenger had removed their helmets, which an investigation by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (Pirc) ruled was designed to deter police from trying to stop them.

The man rode along the cycle path of the disused Old Deeside railway line and was confronted by four officers standing across the track.

He swerved to avoid the officers but lost control of the motorcycle and hit a tree, with the rider sustaining serious injuries.

It was estimated the vehicle was travelling at up to 25mph at the time.

The motorcyclist was arrested and later convicted of driving offences.

A report by Pirc was submitted to Police Scotland in October 2019 and details of the incident have now been published, following the end of criminal proceedings.

The investigation found police responded “properly and proportionately” to the incident.

It was concluded the motorcyclist’s recklessness and loss of control were the major factors in the collision and injuries he sustained.

Inspector Neil Morrison, who led the police enquiry at the time, said: “Police Scotland’s number one priority is to protect the public and keep people safe. The proportionate response that has been acknowledged by Pirc investigators ensured that the neither the wider public nor the officers in attendance were put at further risk.

“I welcome the findings and would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the professional response from everyone involved.”