The site of the collision seen from a nearby flat

A MOTORCYCLIST has died in a crash after a police chase.

A pillion passenger riding on the back of the motorbike suffered leg and arm injuries following the collision in Tottenham Court Road, near Warren Street station, around 7am.

Police say they arrested him after finding him in possession of a machete.

Both the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) and the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) have launched an investigation.

According to a statement released by the Met, two officers riding marked police motorcycles began following the vehicle after it passed through a red light in Oxford Street around 6.45 am.

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Police say they pursued the motorcycle into Tottenham Court Road after the driver “failed to stop for police”.

Shortly after, police say the motorcycle collided with a taxi and “street furniture”.

The driver died in the collision, which happened just outside Tesco.

Officers say they provided first aid before the arrival of paramedics, but the rider’s life could not be saved.

Police said they were supporting the man’s family.

A large police cordon has been set up between Warren Street tube station and the junction with Maple Street.

A forensic tent was in place outside Tesco, and crime scene markers are visible nearby. 

Part of Grafton Way has also been closed.

A cordon has been set up in Tottenham Court Road 

Footage released by Transport for London showing police and ambulance on the scene at 7.16am. 

Ocian Hamel-Smith, who lives in a flat overlooking the site of the collision, told the New Journal: “I had just gone to the kitchen to make my morning coffee, and then I noticed all the police tape.

“I opened the window and stuck my head out and saw the whole tent, and all the carnage spread around. 

“It was elements of a [motor] bike: I could see the actual saddle, and the front light splintered off.

“I also saw a bent parking sign.”