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Southport Inquiry Hears Taxi Driver Waited 50 Minutes to Call 999 After Drop-Off

Detectives say the delay likely did not alter the emergency response.

Overview

  • The inquiry heard that driver Gary Poland took Axel Rudakubana from Banks, Lancashire, to Hart Street and saw children fleeing and heard screams as he drove away.
  • Rear dashcam from the taxi captured children exiting the building and recorded screaming, with footage showing Poland checking his rear-view mirror.
  • Poland called 999 at 12:36 p.m., telling the operator he had picked up "the lad that's done something" and saying he was in shock.
  • Evidence showed distress 29 seconds after Rudakubana entered the building, with three children killed and 10 others targeted in attempted murders during the rapid attack.
  • Detective Chief Inspector Jason Pye testified that, although a quicker call would be expected morally, he does not believe the delay changed the emergency response, and Poland is due to give evidence later this week.