Police watchdog investigates after moped rider, 18, dies and his passenger, 16, is critically hurt following Kent officers' approach

An 18-year-old moped rider from Sheerness died at the scene after crashing in an alleyway on Saturday evening, having fled Kent Police officers who were patrolling on foot near Sheppey Leisure Centre. His 16-year-old passenger, also from Sheppey, was airlifted to a London hospital and remains in a critical condition.

At around 7:50pm on 31 October, officers on foot approached the moped; the rider fled and the crash followed.

Kent Police has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which has opened an investigation.

Floral tributes have been placed in the alleyway next to Sheppey Leisure Centre, where the rider was pronounced dead.