‘Wonderful mother’ killed by police car chasing suspected stolen vehicle

Officers in Greater Manchester said the incident has been referred to the police watchdog

Heather Smedley died after the collision in Oldham, Manchester on Friday (Family handout / GMP)

A “wonderful mother” was killed by a police vehicle after a chase involving a suspected stolen vehicle.

Heather Smedley, 53, was taken to hospital but died a short time later, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said.

The incident, which happened around 10am on Friday in Shaw Road, Oldham, has been referred to the police watchdog.

Officers said the woman was involved in a collision with a police vehicle after a “short pursuit” of the suspect vehicle.

Ms Smedley’s family paid tribute to the mother-of-three.

In a statement released by Greater Manchester Police, they said: “To the most wonderful mother to Benjamin, Olivia and Jamie, daughter to Hilda and Fred, sister, friend, and wife to Damian.

“The world was a much better place with you in it. Our mum was the most kind, gentle, beautiful soul inside and out. She faced all of life’s challenges with her beautiful smile, and her bravery and courage never wavered.

“We could not have asked for a better role model growing up, giving everything she had to all of those she loved, and always supporting those around her.

“She was the glue that held our family together. Her resilience and kindness inspired us all to be better. She had the greatest sense of humour and contagious laugh that we will miss every single day.

“You were too good for this world Mum, there will be a hole in our hearts forever. Heather’s family have asked for privacy while they grieve for their loss.”

Chris Bowen, Chief Superintendent of GMP’s Oldham district, said: “Our sincere thoughts and condolences go to the family and friends of the woman that has sadly passed.

“We understand that the public are concerned by incidents of this nature. In line with normal procedure, referrals have been made to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch and the Independent Office for Police Conduct,” Mr Bowen continued.

“Investigations like this often result in road closures which can cause significant disruption and we thank the local community and road users for their patience.”

Anyone with information or dashcam footage should contact GMP quoting incident log 969 of 23/12/2022.

Information can be reported online or by using the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk, or call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.