AN INVESTIGATION is under way into the death of a Hounslow man who was being pursued by police on the M4.

Roberto Fernandes, 32, of Standard Road, died on March 16 after being chased by police patrol cars on the motorway in Hayes.

The pursuit continued into the westbound side of the M4 motorway and into the Thames Valley Police area.

Reports have confirmed that Mr Fernandes' Ford Fiesta was in collision with the central reservation between junctions 7 and 8 at around 2.45pm. Initial reports indicate he then ran onto the eastbound carriageway and was struck by an oncoming vehicle.

He was taken to Wexham Park Hospital, Slough, where he later died of his injuries.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission is now investigating the incident.

IPCC commissioner Rachel Cerfontyne said: "My condolences go to Mr Fernandes’ family and friends. The IPCC has already made contact with his relatives to explain our role and what we will be investigating.

"The IPCC investigation will focus on police actions from when the decision to pursue Mr Fernandes was taken until the crash on the motorway. Our investigators will look at why the officers decided to stop him, and whether the decision to conduct a pursuit was proportionate.

"There were a number of police vehicles involved in the pursuit and we will look at whether this was appropriate and if other tactical options were open to the police."

The Inquest into Mr Fernandes' death was formally opened yesterday.

Did you know Mr Fernandes? Please contact us on jessicathompson@trinitysouth.co.uk