'Devoted father' killed in police crash named

A "devoted father" who died after he was hit by a police vehicle on an emergency call in south London has been named as David Clark.

The Australian national, who lived in Winteringham, North Lincolnshire, was struck by the marked vehicle on Borough High Street at 00:34 GMT on 7 January, the Metropolitan Police said.

Clark, 35, was given emergency first aid by officers and treated by paramedics, but died at the scene.

Amanda Rowe, director at the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is investigating the crash, said: "Our deepest sympathies are with Mr Clark's family and friends both in the UK and in Australia, and everyone affected by his death."

In a statement, Clark's wife said: "Our family is devastated by the sudden and tragic loss of my husband, David.

"My husband David was not a headline, a statistic, or a passing news story. He was a loving husband, a devoted father to our baby daughter, a son, a brother and a deeply cherished friend. His death has left a profound and lasting void in our lives.

"We ask that our privacy, and the privacy of our family and friends, be respected.

"Our focus is on caring for our daughter, supporting one another and honouring David's life away from public attention."

The IOPC said two Met Police vehicles had been travelling south on Borough High Street responding to an emergency call.

Their sirens were activated and both vehicles had their emergency lights on.

As the driver of the first police vehicle passed through the junction at Great Suffolk Street and Trinity Street, they hit Clark, who appeared to be crossing the road, the IOPC said.

The drivers of both vehicles stopped at the scene and first aid was provided.

Rowe said: "Given a member of the public has died in an incident involving police, it's important that an independent investigation is carried out to establish the full circumstances.

"Our investigation is in its early stages and the officers involved are currently being treated as witnesses."

Listen to the best of BBC Radio London on Sounds and follow BBC London on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [email protected]