Officer Investigated Over Taser Use on Teen Before Fatal M5 Incident

An Avon and Somerset Police officer is under investigation by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) following the use of a Taser on an 18-year-old who tragically died after being hit by a car on the M5 motorway.

On the evening of November 30, 2025, Logan Smith was being transported to hospital in an ambulance when paramedics stopped on the hard shoulder of the northbound M5 due to concerns about his wellbeing. Near the junction for Weston-super-Mare, Logan exited the ambulance and ran onto the motorway itself.

Responding to the emergency call, a police officer arrived and attempted to engage with Logan on the live motorway. During this interaction, the officer discharged a Taser, causing Logan to fall into a live traffic lane. Shortly after, Logan was struck by a southbound vehicle. Despite immediate medical treatment at the scene, he sadly died.

The IOPC investigation is focused on whether the officer’s tactical decisions, including the use of the Taser, were reasonable and proportionate under the circumstances. They are also reviewing if the officer adhered to proper training and protocols. Preliminary findings suggest there may be grounds to consider that the officer breached professional standards of conduct at the misconduct level.

Specifically, the IOPC alleges the officer failed to conduct a required pre-discharge check of the Taser device, though investigations show the weapon functioned normally when deployed. Misconduct in this context may result in disciplinary action but does not imply gross misconduct or dismissal.

IOPC Director Derrick Campbell expressed sympathy for Logan’s family and emphasized the thorough and independent nature of the ongoing investigation. An independent Taser expert report has been commissioned and shared with both the family and Avon and Somerset Police. The watchdog continues to keep the family, police force, and coroner updated as their inquiries progress.