Criminal investigation launched after pensioner, 80, hit by police van

Trevor Bartlett, well known as a photographer for the Nottingham Post, died in the collision on the A52 in Nottingham in December last year.

Trevor Bartlett (L), pictured with Brian Clough, was a retired photographer for the Nottingham Post (John Sumpter)

A constable is under criminal investigation after his police van killed a pensioner who was walking across a pedestrian crossing.

Trevor Barlett, 80, was reportedly walking back from his local pub just days before Christmas on 19 December when he was struck in the Beeston area.

The well-known photographer, who had previously worked for the Nottingham Post, was killed on the A52 after being hit by the van.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) have now said they are investigating the officer who was behind the wheel for possible driving offences.

These are causing death by dangerous driving or causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving.

The officer is also being investigated for potential gross misconduct which relates to their actions and decisions, including any risk assessment made before the collision.

The van, carrying a prisoner to custody, had been driving in a bus lane with blue lights and sirens turned on at the time.

Over the course of his career, Barlett’s work for the local newspaper became synonymous with his coverage of Nottingham Forest Football Club, and became firm friends with manager Brian Clough.

In a statement on social media, the club said: “We were saddened to hear of the recent passing of Trevor Bartlett. Trevor was the photographer for the Nottingham Post for 48 years, covering our matches up and down the country and across Europe.

“Trevor took the history defining photo of Trevor Francis’ header against Malmö in Munich. The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with Trevor’s family at this difficult time.”

IOPC regional director for the West Midlands Derrick Campbell said: “We have been in contact with Mr Bartlett’s family to express our sympathy for their tragic loss, and to explain how our investigation will be conducted.

“Following the conclusion of our investigation, we will decide whether to refer the matter to the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision and we will also determine whether disciplinary proceedings should follow.”