National award for collision investigation unit

A team dedicated to investigating serious and fatal collisions has been recognised for their outstanding commitment and drive to reduce road deaths.

The Collision Investigation Unit and Inspector Simon Hogg attended the UK Road Offender Education awards last night (October 21) in Manchester.

The awards were created to recognise fundamental roles within road safety and to acknowledge those that perform and demonstrate the best qualities through their committed efforts.

Inspector Andrew Howarth headed down with the team after nominating them for the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Road Safety’ award.

He said: “This team consistently demonstrates outstanding commitment to public safety and justice, often working under immense pressure and in deeply traumatic circumstances. Over the past year, the unit has dealt with a series of high-profile road fatalities, each demanding the highest level of investigative rigour and emotional resilience.

“These incidents have often drawn significant public and media attention, and the team's ability to maintain integrity, accuracy, and compassion throughout their work has been nothing short of exceptional.”

One collision in particular helped drive major change in road safety and identified gaps that had never been recognised before.

In May 2024, the team, along with Neighbourhood Inspector Simon Hogg, attended a fatal collision on the A1(M) which resulted in the death of two people, baby Zackary Blades and his aunt Karlene Warner.

Their vehicle, a Peugeot 308, was struck by an Audi Q5 whose driver had flown back from Turkey that night and consumed alcohol on the flight.

On arrival at the airport, the offender collected his vehicle from Newcastle Airport and chose to drive home intoxicated.

Following the harrowing investigation and subsequent court case, the unit decided that action was needed after identifying a lack of awareness and education around airports and ports in the UK.

That’s when Takeoff was born, a new innovative operation to educate drivers locally and nationally around the consequences of driving under the influence.

The operation involves stop checking drivers as they leave the airport and carrying out breath tests on these individuals.

However, these checks are not just about prosecution and fines.

They are about educating drivers and raising awareness of the tragedy involving baby Zachary and Karlene to make people stop, think and change their behaviours.

Inspector Howarth continued: “I am so proud of the team for their dedication and professionalism in the face of some of the most complex and emotionally challenging investigations.

“The team goes far beyond the call of duty working long hours, often in emotional environments, to ensure that the causes of fatal collisions are thoroughly investigated, justice is served for families, and lessons are learned to help prevent future tragedies.

“They are more than deserving of this award.”