Published Date: 16.06.2005

Police Ombudsman staff investigating circumstances surrounding the death of a 29-year-old man who died after he was hit by a Police Land Rover in west Belfast say they are anxious to trace the occupants of a car which was in the area at the time.
The accident happened shortly after 1 am on Saturday, June 4, the Springfield Road near its junction with Avoca Close.

Initial reports suggest that the police Land Rover had been responding to an emergency call when it hit a pedestrian. Police officers gave the man first aid but he died at the scene.

A spokesman said the Police Ombudsman has mounted an independent, impartial investigation to establish the circumstances of what happened.

Investigators are carrying out a detailed forensic analysis of the police vehicle and have examined the scene of the incident. They have conducted extensive house-to-house enquiries in the area and are analysing relevant material provided by PSNI.

Earlier this week senior Police Ombudsman staff leading the investigation attended a public meeting at the Upper Springfield Community Trust. The investigators said they had received excellent support from the bereaved family and from the community but said they want to hear from anyone with information about what happened who has not already contacted them.

Investigators are particularly anxious to hear from the driver of a dark coloured Volkswagen Passat taxi to come forward as he or she may have information, which will assist the enquiry.

They also want to hear from anyone who saw a police Land Rover leave the New Barnsley base at around 1 am, and drive up the Springfield Road.

The telephone number is 028 90 828627.

Police Ombudsman Information Office:
028 90 828604