Inquest Begins into Death of 17-Year-Old Girl Struck on M5 After Leaving Police Vehicle
An inquest has been opened into the death of 17-year-old Tamzin Ellen Hall, who was fatally struck by a vehicle on the M5 motorway after exiting a police car while under arrest. The incident occurred on the evening of November 11, near Taunton, Somerset.
Tamzin, described as a student, was being transported to a custody suite in Bridgwater by Avon and Somerset Police officers. Shortly after 11 p.m., the police vehicle stopped on the northbound carriageway for reasons yet to be determined.
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Circumstances Leading to the Tragedy
According to evidence presented at the inquest opening at Wells Town Hall, Tamzin exited the police vehicle, crossed the northbound lanes, and climbed over the crash barrier. She then entered the southbound carriageway, where she was struck by an oncoming vehicle.
Coroner's officer Ben Batley stated that Tamzin's injuries were "not survivable," and she was pronounced dead at the scene at 11:10 p.m. She was later identified through fingerprint analysis. A post-mortem examination revealed head, neck, and chest injuries as the provisional cause of death.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings
The case is being investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) alongside Avon and Somerset Police. The inquiries will focus on Tamzin’s arrest, the decision to stop the police vehicle, and the events that led to her leaving the car.
Senior Coroner Samantha Marsh emphasized the complexity of the case and noted that it would likely involve a jury due to Tamzin being under arrest and thus in state detention. The coroner will also determine whether the hearing will be conducted as an Article 2 inquest, which examines potential failings by public authorities.
Family and Official Responses
Tamzin’s mother, siblings, and extended family have expressed their profound grief over the tragic loss. During the hearing, Mrs. Marsh extended condolences to the family on behalf of the Somerset Coroner’s Service.
IOPC Director David Ford expressed sympathy for Tamzin's family, stating, “This was a truly tragic incident. Our role is to independently investigate all the circumstances surrounding this incident.”
Next Steps
The inquest has been adjourned, with a pre-inquest review scheduled for November 5, 2025, to allow sufficient time for the ongoing investigations.
This deeply distressing incident has prompted significant scrutiny of police procedures and raised questions about the events leading to Tamzin’s death. Further developments are expected as the investigation continues.