Inquiry continues into deaths of Wigan man and friend in car crash after police chase

An investigation is continuing into the deaths of two men in a car crash after a police pursuit.
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The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is looking into the fatal collision involving Wiganer Patrick “Paddy” Connors, 36, and Thomas “Tommy” Sharp, 29.

They were travelling in a Mercedes C class car which was involved in a crash at around 11.40pm on Wednesday, September 23 on Frederick Road in Salford.

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The IOPC’s initial inquiries have revealed the emergency lights and siren on an unmarked car from Greater Manchester Police were used to signal to the Mercedes to stop.

Paddy ConnorsPaddy Connors
Paddy Connors

Following a short pursuit, which lasted less than one minute along Lower Broughton Street and Frederick Road, the Mercedes collided with two cars, both VW Passats, travelling in the opposite direction.

The driver of one of the vehicles, a taxi, had minor injuries. Two women, who were passengers in the back of the taxi, were taken to hospital with serious injuries, which are not thought to be life-threatening.

The driver of the second VW Passat was uninjured.

IOPC’s regional director Amanda Rowe said: “The loss of these two men was a tragic incident and my thoughts are with their families and friends at this difficult time.

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“When someone dies following contact with the police, it is mandatory for forces to refer the matter to the IOPC. We will be considering in car footage, CCTV and witness statements to establish the circumstances of this incident and whether the local and national guidelines and procedures were followed.

“We will continue to keep the families of Mr Connors and Mr Sharp updated on our progress, as well as the force and the coroner.”

HM Coroner has been informed and inquests into the two men’s deaths were opened on Thursday.

A funeral for Mr Connors will be held at 1pm on Friday, October 9 at Westwood Cemetery in Ince.

Tributes were paid online after his sudden death.

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Stuart Smith wrote on Facebook: “R.i.p Paddy Connors an absolute gentleman can not believe it fly high”

Adam Berry said: “Rest in peace Tommy Sharp and Paddy Connors. Can’t believe it rest in peace boys will meet again”

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