TWO men in their 20s have died after an early hours crash in Brighouse.

The incident took place shortly after 1am this morning (Friday, July 17) after a West Yorkshire Police vehicle began a police pursuit in the town centre.

It is understood that a short time later the car crashed into a road barrier on Bradford Road.

The two male occupants of the car are believed to be in their 20s - their next of kin has been informed.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has since launched an investigation.

Miranda Biddle, IOPC regional director, said: “This is a tragic incident and my thoughts are with the men’s family and friends and all those affected, including the emergency services in attendance.

“We sent investigators to the scene and to the post incident procedures, where the two officers in the police vehicle provided statements to us.

“It is mandatory, when someone dies following police contact, that the matter is referred to the IOPC. Our role is to establish and examine the circumstances of what happened; this work is already underway, and West Yorkshire Police is cooperating fully with our enquiries.”