Belgian Police Officer and Driver Killed in France After Pursuit
A Belgian police officer and the driver of a pursued vehicle have died after being hit by a car in Angevillers, France, near the Belgian border, AFP reports.
The incident occurred when a vehicle ignored an order to stop on the Brussels-Luxembourg motorway, leading to a pursuit by two Belgian police vehicles, which crossed into France.
During the chase on Belgian territory, the occupants of the vehicle discarded drugs, which were later retrieved by Belgian police and handed over to French authorities.
The pursued vehicle came to an abrupt stop, allowing one police car to avoid a collision. The second police vehicle, however, struck it, resulting in no injuries or significant damage. The occupants exited the car, with the driver crossing the road while the passenger remained behind.
“Respect to all officers who work every day for our safety, in often dangerous circumstances.”
A police officer then pursued the driver on foot when both were struck by a third vehicle, resulting in their deaths at the scene. One occupant of the pursued vehicle was arrested, while the driver of the third vehicle was briefly detained and has since been released. Belgian officers involved in the incident were also questioned.
The French and Belgian authorities often collaborate on law enforcement matters across the border. The police forces of Metz and Thionville are leading the investigation to determine the specifics of the Belgian pursuit on French roads and the circumstances surrounding the accident.
“We regret to confirm that a colleague from the traffic police died during an operation on the D14 just beyond the French border,” the Belgian federal police told AFP. “Out of respect for his family, friends and close colleagues, we will not be giving any further details at this time. Our thoughts are with them.”
Interior minister Bernard Quintin responded to the fatalities on X, expressing condolences: “My thoughts go out to his family, colleagues and close ones. Respect to all officers who work every day for our safety, in often dangerous circumstances,” he stated.
Both families of the deceased have been notified, and further updates will follow from the ongoing investigation, reports 24brussels.
