Witnesses have claimed that an unmarked police car was allegedly driving on the wrong side of the road when it crashed with a car in Eltham, killing a heavily pregnant woman and her unborn baby.

The incident happened on the A20, near the junction with Kidbrooke Park Road, Eltham, at around 6.15pm on Thursday, according to the Metropolitan Police.

A heavily pregnant 38-year-old woman and her unborn baby died as a result of their injuries.

The next of kin have been informed, the Met said.

Abu Bakar, 34, claimed the woman was turning into the Sutcliffe Park Sports Centre when an unmarked police car “driving on the wrong side of the road” crashed with her.

He told the PA news agency: “Four police cars had their lights on racing down the road.

“The speed they were doing – I’ve never seen anything like it.

“One of the cars hit her and she flipped three times. Her car was very badly smashed up.”

Another eye witness told the Telegraph an unmarked police car, thought to be a black Volvo, had its blue lights and siren on at the time.

The unnamed witness said: “I heard it before I saw anything, and I looked out of the window and I saw the unmarked police car.

“I didn’t see it go into the other car, but it looked like it was doing some speed.

“The other car, a blue car, collided, flipped about three times across the pavement, and then turned upright and landed there.”

According to the Metropolitan Police, two officers who were in the unmarked car were taken to hospital following the crash.

They have since been discharged from hospital. 

Detective Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, in charge of policing in Greenwich, said: “My heart goes out to the woman’s family and friends who have lost their loved ones in these tragic circumstances.

“An investigation into the circumstances of this collision is under way by the Independent Office for Police Conduct and we will assist with their inquiries in any way we can.”

An IOPC spokesperson said: “We can confirm that we have started an independent investigation into the circumstances of a fatal collision involving Met Police in South East London last night (17 October).  

 “We were notified that an unmarked police vehicle was in collision with a member of public’s vehicle at around 6.15pm on the A20, near the junction with Kidbrooke Park Road, Eltham, SE9.  

 “We understand that the driver, and sole occupant, of the vehicle was a heavily pregnant woman. Ambulance and fire services attended, and she was given treatment.  

 “The woman and her baby sadly both died. 

 “We sent investigators to the scene and post-incident process to begin gathering evidence. Our investigation is in the very early stages.  

 “Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman who has died and all of those affected by this tragic incident.”    

Witnesses are asked to contact IOPC investigators by calling 03003035610 or emailing ElthamRoad@policeconduct.gov.uk

The Metropolitan Police and IOPC has been approached for further comment.