An investigation has begun into how a teacher suspected of child abuse was able to flee police and throw himself in front of a train.

Savraj Powar, 43, was arrested at his home in Isleworth, West London, on Tuesday on suspicion of a “wide range of offences” involving girls at Lampton School in Hounslow. But while police were searching the house he ran to his car and drove off. His body was found soon afterwards at Osterley Underground station.

Mr Powar had been suspended from his post at the secondary school for “inappropriate conduct”. There had been two complaints against him but a source connected to the school said that more were expected. This year Mr Powar was found in a pub car park with five knife wounds, which may have been self-inflicted.

The case has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission, which said that it would be directing and controlling the police investigation. An inquest was opened and adjourned at Fulham Coroner's Court.

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