High-Speed Police Pursuit on M3 Ends in Safe Arrest

A high-speed police chase on the M3 ended safely yesterday (Thursday 11 December) after officers from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Roads Policing brought a fleeing driver to a controlled stop near the M25.

The incident began in Southampton when the driver, who was already wanted, failed to stop for officers. The vehicle headed north on the M3, reaching speeds in excess of 100mph and at times using the hard shoulder in an attempt to evade capture. Traffic on the busy motorway added to the risk as the chase continued towards Surrey.

Police units, supported by Armed Response Vehicle (ARV) colleagues, maintained pursuit while working to minimise danger to other road users. As the chase approached the M25, officers were able to use the flow of traffic to their advantage and successfully box in the suspect vehicle.

No members of the public were injured and no other vehicles were damaged during the pursuit. Police reported only minor damage—a scuffed alloy wheel—to one of their cars.

The driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop, and for additional offences linked to another force area.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Roads Policing praised the teamwork that led to the safe resolution of the incident.