A teenager died after being struck by a vehicle on the M5 motorway just moments after a police officer used a Taser on him, the police watchdog has confirmed.
Details of the Tragic Incident
Logan Smith, aged 18 from Weston-super-Mare, was being taken to hospital in an ambulance on the evening of Sunday, 30 November. The ambulance pulled onto the hard shoulder after paramedics raised concerns about his behaviour.
Logan subsequently left the vehicle and walked into the live traffic lanes. Ambulance staff called for police support, and a single officer arrived at the scene. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) stated that body-worn video shows the officer attempted to communicate with Logan before deploying the Taser a short time later.
The discharge caused Logan to collapse onto the ground. Tragically, moments after, he was hit by a vehicle travelling on the opposite carriageway near the Weston-super-Mare junction. Despite emergency treatment, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Independent Investigation Underway
The IOPC has launched an independent investigation into the actions and decisions of Avon and Somerset Police prior to Logan's death. IOPC Director Derrick Campbell offered his sympathies to Logan's family and friends.
"We want to reassure everyone that we will independently investigate all the circumstances surrounding this incident, including the use of a Taser," Campbell said. Investigators have already gathered evidence, taken initial accounts from the officer and ambulance staff, and met with Logan's family to explain the probe's scope.
The coroner has been informed, and formal identification along with a post-mortem examination have been completed.
Tributes and Mental Health Struggles
In the wake of his death, heartfelt tributes poured in for Logan, who was originally from Chesterfield but lived in Weston-super-Mare. He was described as a motorbike enthusiast who had studied plumbing at Weston College.
His sister highlighted his struggles, writing on social media that he had mental health issues and felt his concerns about medication were not being heard by doctors. In the weeks before his death, Logan had used social media to express worries about his wellbeing.
Friends and family shared emotional messages online, remembering him as a kind soul taken far too soon. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Avon and Somerset Police have been approached for comment regarding the ongoing investigation.
