On Sunday, masked thugs repeatedly threw pyrotechnics at a police van as a memorial service for a boy killed in a motorcycle accident deteriorated into pandemonium.
In Coventry’s Longford Road neighbourhood, where Luke Clearly, 19, passed away on August 17 after colliding with a Ford Kuga while riding his motorcycle, disorder broke out.
Video evidence from the shocking incident shows the thugs hurling the pyrotechnics at the police van and the cars on each side.
Because of safety concerns, West Midlands Police had encouraged people not to attend the teenager’s “ride-out,” but many did, and mayhem ensued.
They claimed that the violence “placed the safety of the public and police officers at jeopardy.”
Eight persons were detained by police in Coventry on suspicion of assault and driving offences, while seven others were freed on bail.
A man standing in the middle of Longford Road and firing fireworks at the police waggon is captured on camera wearing a mask.
The road and the van are both close to the van when the fireworks go off, raining sparks and smoke all over the three vehicles.
The public is urged to get in touch with the police if they recognise any of the three people in the film that has also been published by the police.
On August 24, they made eight arrests, and a 30-year-old male was charged with driving without necessary caution and attention, operating a vehicle while ineligible, and operating a vehicle without a valid licence.
Seven further people, ranging in age from 15 to 48, were freed on police bail with strict restrictions like a nighttime curfew and a prohibition from the area where the disorder occurred.
Police also found three stolen bicycles.
On August 17, about 11 p.m., teenage Luke Cleary lost his life when his motorcycle crashed with a Ford Kuga on Longford Road.
He received care on the spot but passed away soon after from his severe wounds.
At the collision site, flowers and mementos were left.
Force CID Detective Inspector Stew Lewis said: “We would urge you to get in touch if you recognise anyone from the video recording.”
“I would also encourage the individuals in the video to get in touch or prepare for a visit from us very soon.”
“We have made video of fireworks being thrown at police vans and into the air available not only to catch the perpetrators but also to demonstrate the genuine danger to the general public.”
“This might have very easily led to individuals suffering terrible injuries.” Despite the fact that our investigation is going quickly, we still urge the public to contact us with any information they may have.
Log 1705 from August 21 should be referenced when contacting police via live chat. Calling Crimestoppers anonymously is also possible at 0800 555 111.