Trainee Police Officer Died by Suicide in High-Speed Crash, Inquest Rules
A popular trainee police officer died by suicide after crashing his car into a tree at almost 100 miles per hour, an inquest has officially ruled. The tragic incident occurred on the A414 near Ongar, Essex, in the early hours of September 5, 2025.
Details of the Fatal Collision
Louie Day, aged 23, was likely killed instantly and was thrown from his vehicle upon impact. Experts estimate that he was driving between 96 and 99 mph when the collision happened, as heard at Essex Coroners' Court. At the time of his death, Louie was training as a response officer with the Metropolitan Police on the East Area Command, based from Barking and Dagenham. He had previously served as a Police Community Support Officer for two years.
There were no direct witnesses to the crash, but a passerby discovered Louie lying on the ground after being ejected from the car. He was found sitting on, rather than under, his seatbelt and sustained multiple severe injuries to his head, chest, and abdomen.
Inquest Findings and Family Statement
An inquest held in Chelmsford on Thursday, February 26, 2026, revealed that Louie had left a note of intention before his death. Michelle Brown, the area coroner for Essex, stated: "Louie Day from Brentwood died on September 5, 2025, on the A414 near King Street due to multiple injuries sustained as a result of a road traffic collision as the driver and only occupant, leaving a note of intent. The conclusion is one of suicide." Medical examinations confirmed no evidence of drugs or alcohol in his system.
In a heartfelt statement, Louie's family expressed their profound grief: "It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the passing of our son, Louie Day, a beautiful soul who has left this world and will be greatly missed by all who loved him."
Witness Account and Road Safety Concerns
A delivery driver reported seeing Louie's car shortly before the crash. In a witness statement, they described a car traveling towards them that performed a three-point turn in the middle of the road, which seemed unusual. The driver added: "After it turned round, it looked like it was speeding away. It must have been doing faster than 40mph. As I drove on I saw smoke and mist in the road and then saw bits of car and realised something had happened."
This tragic death adds to a number of fatalities on the A414 between Chelmsford and Harlow. Authorities are actively working to enhance road safety and reduce serious collisions, including the installation of new average speed cameras along the route.
