Hunt to find ‘dangerous driver who caused three-car smash outside pub while fleeing police’

A suspected dangerous driver fled from police before ‘causing’ a three-vehicle smash in the Black Country. Police are currently hunting the suspect who was allegedly behind the wheel of a cloned car in Walsall today.

Officers on routine patrol spotted the suspected cloned car before launching into a short pursuit when the driver reportedly failed to stop. The car was then driven dangerously along the A34 Birmingham Road after officers were forced to abandon the chase, police have said.

A three-vehicle collision occurred before the alleged cloned car was found abandoned nearby. Paramedics were dispatched to the scene and checked over the occupants of the three cars.

READ MORE: A34 live updates as ‘police incident’ shuts Walsall road and diverts buses

Poll: Pavement parking in Birmingham – should it be banned?

An investigation has since been launched by West Midlands Police. A force spokeswoman said: “Officers on routine patrol this morning (June 25) spotted a suspected cloned car in Walsall.

“The car failed to stop and a short pursuit took place before being abandoned by officers for safety reasons. The suspected cloned car continued to be driven dangerously along Birmingham Road resulting in a three-car collision before driving off.

“The occupants from the three cars were checked over by paramedics at the scene. The suspected cloned car was later discovered abandoned nearby.

“Enquiries are ongoing and anyone with information is asked to get in touch quoting log 1392 of June 25.” The A34 was closed in both directions after reports of the incident this afternoon (Sunday, June 25).

It happened close to The Bell pub, with drivers faced with traffic delays as a result. The force added: “Road safety is a key issue for West Midlands Police; we know that by working together with local communities and partners we can make significant progress in creating safer roads.

“We are actively patrolling key areas to enforce speed limits and protect our communities from the dangers of excessive speed and other road harm issues. As the summer season approaches, we are intensifying our efforts and conducting more operations across the region.

“We are conducting regular operations on the roads focussing on offences known as the ‘fatal four’: speeding; drink driving; mobile phone use while driving; not wearing seatbelts. We also target those who have inappropriate child safety measures and window tints that hinder visibility.

“We are urging all motorists to prioritise road safety, obey speed limits, and remain vigilant while driving. Your actions can make a significant difference in preventing accidents and protecting lives.

“We don’t ever want to be knocking on someone’s door to deliver the worst possible news a family could hear so please take that extra time and care when on the roads – and help save lives. We appreciate the support and cooperation of our communities in reporting any instances of dangerous driving.

“Your valuable information helps us take appropriate action and prevent potential harm.”