An inquest has determined that a police officer, Louie Day, tragically lost his life in a high-speed crash into a tree, ruling his death as suicide. Day, 23, was undergoing training with the Metropolitan Police when the incident occurred on the A414 near Ongar in Essex during the early hours of September 5 last year. Although there were no witnesses to the fatal collision, Day was discovered by a passerby shortly after the crash.
During the hearing at Essex Coroner’s Court in Chelmsford, it was revealed that Day sustained severe injuries to his head, chest, and abdomen in the crash. A suicide note left by Day indicated his intention. Emergency services responded to the scene near King Street following the crash at approximately 3:30 am, where Day was found outside of the vehicle by a passing motorist.
According to Michelle Brown, the Area Coroner for Essex, Day likely perished instantly and was not wearing his seatbelt, sitting on it instead. Toxicology reports indicated no presence of drugs or alcohol in his system. A witness statement from a delivery driver described observing a car performing a sudden three-point turn on the road, followed by speeding away at a velocity exceeding 40mph.
The witness recounted noticing smoke, mist, and car debris on the road, indicating that an accident had occurred. Experts estimate that Day was driving at a speed between 96 and 99 mph at the time of the crash. Brown concluded that Day’s death on September 5, 2025, was a result of multiple injuries sustained in a road traffic collision, with the driver being the sole occupant and leaving behind a note of intent, leading to the determination of suicide.
Day was serving as a response officer with the Metropolitan Police in the East Area Command at the time of the tragic event, having previously worked as a PCSO for two years. His family expressed profound sadness at his passing and requested privacy to mourn his loss.
For individuals in need of emotional support, the Samaritans helpline at 116 123 is available 24 hours a day, or they can reach out via email, in person at a Samaritans branch, or through the Samaritans website.
