Two Met PCs charged over death of pregnant woman

Two Met Police Officers Face Charges in Fatal Collision Involving Pregnant Woman

Two Metropolitan Police officers are now charged following a fatal crash that claimed the lives of a pregnant woman and her unborn child in south-east London. The incident occurred on the A20 road, close to the junction with Kidbrooke Park in Kidbrooke, on 17 October 2024. PC Chris Johnson faces charges of causing death by dangerous driving, while former PC Danny Tomkins is charged with dangerous driving. The charges stem from an investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which concluded its inquiry last October.

Johnson was operating the vehicle directly involved in the collision, whereas Tomkins was driving a separate car. The IOPC clarified that Tomkins’ charge pertains to “his alleged manner of driving.” The woman, who was 38 years old, lost her life at the scene of the crash, and her condition later deteriorated in hospital. Both officers are set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 28 May. The case has sparked renewed focus on police conduct and safety protocols during traffic incidents.

“Our thoughts remain with the woman’s family and friends, who continue to grieve the loss of her and her unborn child,” stated Acting Det Ch Supt James Derham. “This was a truly terrible and heartbreaking incident. 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.”