A Greater Manchester Police Officer who crashed into a woman’s car during a high speed pursuit in Oldham resulting in her death has been found not guilty dangerous driving and not guilty to a second charge of causing her death by careless driving.
Fifty three year old Heather Smedley was killed in December 2021 just two days before Xmas when an unmarked police car driven by Mark Burrows which had been in pursuit of an Audi A3 that officers believed to be stolen, collided with her Peugeot 108 at the junction of Oldham Road and Otmoor Way in Royton
She died at the scene around 30 minutes after the collision.Two police officers also received treatment for injuries sustained in the collision.
After her death, Ms Smedley’s family paid tribute to “the most kind, gentle, beautiful soul inside and out”.
Assistant Chief Constable Chris Sykes said: “Mark Burrows went to work that day like any other day: intent on serving the public and keeping them safe from those who seek to do harm. It is nothing short of tragic that an innocent woman died in the course of those duties.
“My thoughts are with Heather Smedley’s loved ones who continue to mourn her devastating loss. Only one man was responsible for Heather’s death that day and he’s already behind bars.
“The impact of this incident on PC Burrows is lifelong and has been compounded by a criminal investigation. It is important officers are held to account for their actions but are not fearful of the consequences of putting themselves in harm’s way.
“Our highly trained pursuit drivers are some of the thousands of brave and skilled officers who routinely face dangerous and difficult situations to protect the public. They have my full support in continuing to use their specialist training to confront danger and keep you safe.”
