An independent investigation into a police chase which when the car being pursued hit a pedestrian, killing him at the scene, is appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Two men have been released on police bail while Sussex Police investigates the crash itself, which happened on Tuesday last week at about 10pm.
Pensioner Jonos Sasvari, known locally as Hungarian John, was killed after being hit by the Vauxhall Astra at the bottom of St James’s Street.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating how the police chase unfolded, as is routine in fatal crashes involving police pursuits.
The IPCC said: “Initial indications are that the driver of the Vauxhall failed to stop when signalled to do so by Sussex Police officers in a marked vehicle on Bear Road.
“The police vehicle began to follow the Vauxhall, which travelled on towards the Brighton sea front and collided with the man at the St James’ Street and Old Steine junction.
“A second Sussex Police car arrived at the scene of the collision shortly afterwards and attempted first aid on the injured man, however he was pronounced dead at the scene.”
IPCC investigators would like to hear from anyone who may have seen the incident or the events leading up to it, particularly what they might recall about police activity. Information can be provided by contacting 0800 151 0020 or oldsteinertc@ipcc.gsi.gov.uk.
IPCC investigators were also at the scene of the incident last night (around the St James’ Street and Old Steine junction in Brighton) from 9:30pm seeking to speak to anyone who may have witnessed events.
