Full Breakdown
Investigation Launched into Death of Logan Smith After Police Taser Incident
12/6/2025, 11:57:38 AM
Fatal Incident on the M5 Motorway
Logan Smith, an 18-year-old from Weston-super-Mare, died after being struck by a car on the M5 motorway in North Somerset on November 30, 2025. The incident occurred shortly after Smith exited an ambulance that had stopped on the hard shoulder due to concerns raised by paramedics. According to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), police were called to the scene when Smith walked onto the live lanes of the motorway.
Sequence of Events
The IOPC reported that at approximately 11 PM, a single police officer arrived at the scene. Body-worn camera footage indicated that the officer attempted to engage with Smith before discharging a Taser. This action caused Smith to fall to the ground, where he was subsequently hit by a car traveling along the southbound carriageway. Despite receiving emergency first aid, Smith was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Official Responses
The IOPC has initiated an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Smith's death, focusing on the actions and decisions made by Avon and Somerset Police prior to the incident. IOPC Director Derrick Campbell expressed condolences to Smith's family and emphasized the commitment to thoroughly investigate the use of the Taser during the encounter. The IOPC has already begun gathering evidence and has met with Smith's family to explain the investigation process.
Avon and Somerset Police Assistant Chief Constable Joanne Hall acknowledged the emotional impact of the incident on both the police officers and ambulance crews involved. Hall stated, "This incident has had a significant effect on our officers and ambulance crews who are understandably incredibly upset by what happened." The police department has also made a mandatory referral to the IOPC following the incident.
Criticism and Opposition
While the investigation is ongoing, there are concerns regarding the appropriateness of using a Taser in this situation. Critics have raised questions about the police's decision-making process and the potential risks associated with deploying a Taser on an individual in a vulnerable state. The IOPC's investigation aims to address these concerns and provide clarity on the events leading to Smith's death.
What's Next
The IOPC will continue its investigation, which includes reviewing bodycam footage and interviewing witnesses. A post-mortem examination has been conducted, and the coroner has been informed. The findings of the investigation will be crucial in determining the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident and any potential accountability for the actions taken by law enforcement.
Verbatim Quotes
- “IOPC Director Derrick Campbell said: “My thoughts and sympathies are with Logan’s family and friends and everyone affected by this shocking and tragic incident.” — Derrick Campbell, IOPC Director
- “This incident has had a significant effect on our officers and ambulance crews who are understandably incredibly upset by what happened.” — Joanne Hall, Assistant Chief Constable, Avon and Somerset Police
