Man arrested for filming fatal collision

A man has been arrested after a video showing the scene of a fatal collision on the A14 at Sproughton was shared on social media.

The 37-year-old man from Ipswich was arrested yesterday Wednesday 5 June, on suspicion of malicious communications and driving a motor vehicle on a road whilst using a handheld device. He was taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning and has since been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

The video reportedly showed the victim of the fatal collision, which was then shared on social media.

The collision occurred at approximately 5.43pm on Tuesday 4 June on the A14 westbound between junctions 54 and 53, and involved a car, van and a motorcycle. The motorcyclist, a man aged in his 40s, sadly died at the scene.

Acting Inspector Bryon Hearsum of the Roads and Armed Policing Team in Martlesham said: “We were extremely disappointed to receive reports from the public around this social media post but are grateful to those that highlighted it to us.

“It is insensitive and disrespectful to video the scene of a serious or fatal collision and we ask that members of the public not take or share images or footage following these incidents to prevent further distress for the families and loved ones involved. I would urge people to think first – would you want a photo or video of yourself or your loved one uploaded to social media after such a collision?

“Any motorist passing the scene of a collision where there are emergency services in attendance need to concentrate on their own driving to ensure that they pass the location as safely and efficiently as possible to allow the traffic flow to return to normality.

“Use of almost all functions on a handheld mobile phone whilst driving is an offence; motorists need to be aware of this and be assured that we will take robust action in such cases.”

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