Two Met PCs charged over death of pregnant woman

Two Metropolitan Police Officers Face Charges Following Tragic Crash in Southeast London

A fatal collision involving an unmarked police car in south-east London has led to charges against two Metropolitan Police officers. The incident, which occurred on the A20 near Kidbrooke Park on 17 October 2024, resulted in the death of a pregnant woman and her unborn child. The crash, which took place during the early hours of the day, has been the subject of an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

Charges and Investigation Outcomes

PC Chris Johnson, 38, is charged with causing death by dangerous driving, while former PC Danny Tomkins faces a separate accusation of dangerous driving. The IOPC concluded its probe in October 2023, linking Tomkins’ alleged driving behavior to the incident. Johnson was operating the vehicle directly involved in the crash, whereas Tomkins was driving a second car at the time.

The woman’s child succumbed at the scene of the accident before she later passed away in hospital. Both officers are scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 28 May. The IOPC emphasized the complexity of its inquiry, which involved examining the circumstances of the crash and the actions of the drivers.

“Our thoughts remain with the woman’s family and friends, who continue to grieve the loss of her and her unborn child. This was a truly terrible and heartbreaking incident,” said Acting Det Ch Supt James Derham. “The IOPC have conducted a thorough and complex investigation, and we have worked closely with them as their inquiries have progressed. It is important that nothing is said that could prejudice the court proceedings that will now follow, so it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.”