NPAS assists in high-speed pursuit arrest
The National Police Air Service (NPAS) played a vital role in helping bring a dangerous high-speed pursuit to a safe conclusion, working closely with Avon and Somerset Police and Gloucestershire Police.
On Sunday 13 April 2025, officers attempted to stop a BMW on the M5 after identifying the driver as recently disqualified. When the vehicle failed to stop, a pursuit began - spanning residential areas, rural roads, and major motorways including the M5, M4, and M32.
Our NPAS crew was deployed to provide aerial support, offering real-time intelligence and tracking from above. This enabled officers on the ground to maintain situational awareness and safely coordinate their response. The pursuit ended when the suspect drove into a dead-end and attempted to flee on foot. With guidance from the air, ground units were able to quickly locate and arrest him.
This incident is a clear example of how NPAS works in partnership with local forces to enhance public safety. Our ability to provide rapid aerial support ensures that dangerous situations can be managed effectively, reducing risk to officers and the public.
The outcome
The driver, Michael Thomas Stack, was sentenced to 12 months in prison and disqualified from driving for four years and six months. He was also found to be over the legal limit for cocaine and benzoylecgonine.
We’re proud to support our policing colleagues across the UK and help bring incidents like this to a safe and successful conclusion.
