An innocent woman and a police officer sustained injuries during a 45-minute car chase through Salford that reached speeds of up to 100 mph in residential areas, police reported.
The incident began around 10:30 a.m. when the Greater Manchester Police's Tactical Intercept Unit observed a vehicle being driven erratically. The driver failed to stop for officers, initiating a pursuit that involved ten police cars and aerial support from the National Police Air Service.
During the chase, the suspect drove on the wrong side of the road, navigated roundabouts at high speed, and entered an active underground supermarket car park. The suspect's vehicle collided with another car, injuring a female civilian, and also reversed into an unmarked police vehicle, causing minor damage.
The pursuit concluded when officers successfully deployed a stinger device, bringing the car to a halt. An officer was taken to the hospital for treatment of a hand injury sustained when the stinger was dragged.
A 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and failing to stop. He remains in custody.
Police Sergeant Neil Molloy stated that the driving was extremely dangerous and put the public at risk. He expressed relief that no one was seriously injured and commended the officers for their swift and professional actions in apprehending the suspect and seizing the vehicle.