The police watchdog has been informed by Durham Constabulary of the incident which saw one man die and another critically injured after a motorbike crash in Peterlee.
Lee Stevenson, 27, was the pillion passenger on the motorbike and was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident, in Passfield Way. The driver of the motorbike remains in a critical condition in hospital.
On Sunday, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed the police had informed it of the crash - which took place "following a brief pursuit by officers after it [the motorbike] failed to stop". Police forces are required by law to refer incidents to the watchdog for assessment "if someone had direct or indirect contact with the police when, or shortly before, they were seriously injured or died".
The crash happened at around 2.30am on Saturday morning. In a statement, a spokesperson for the IOPC said: "“We have been informed by Durham Constabulary of a fatal road traffic incident involving a motorcycle in Passfield Way, Peterlee at around 2.30am yesterday (25 March).
"A man riding pillion has died at the scene. We understand the motorcycle failed to stop and was then briefly pursued by a marked police car prior to the collision. After being notified by Durham Constabulary, we sent investigators to the police post incident procedure to assess the level of our involvement, if any. Our assessment is ongoing.
"Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased man, and anyone else affected by this incident."
Lee's family on Sunday paid tribute to him. Saying he was a young dad with "his whole life ahead of him". His mum Naomi said: "Lee was hardworking, funny, and lived life to the max. He thought he was invincible, and I wish he had been. He was loved by everyone who knew him and will be missed forever."
On Saturday, a Durham Police spokesperson said: "Two men on a motorbike crashed in Passfield Way, just after 2.30am, following a brief pursuit by officers after it failed to stop.
"Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the pillion passenger sadly died at the scene. Durham Constabulary would like to express our condolences to his family and friends."
Any member of the public with information to share is asked to call the Collision Investigation Team on 01325 742702 or email catherine.iley@durham.police.uk with contact details.
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