Death-crash inquiry

An independent investigation will be held into the crash which killed 17-year-old Oldham driver Waqar Ahmed Alyas.

He died in the early hours of July 30 when his Ford Focus hit a tree as it travelled from Oldham to Ashton. Waqar was being followed by police after being spotted driving at speed without lights.

The teenager attempted to turn into Springwood Way in the Oldham/Ashton border when his car hit the tree. Officers pulled him free before the car burst into flames.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission made an initial assessment of the accident and has now decided to conduct an independent investigation.

IPCC commissioner Naseem Malik said: “My sympathies go out to this young man’s family. It is a tragic waste.

“Unfortunately we may never know why he was driving in the way he was.

“What is important is that a thorough and independent investigation is conducted to establish the facts of the pursuit. This will focus on whether the appropriate policies and procedures were followed.”

The IPCC is keen to speak with anyone who may have seen any part of the police pursuit. A dedicated witness appeal line has been set up on 0800 096 9077