Tragic death of Thames Valley PC

16 August 2019

The tragic death of Thames Valley PC Andrew Harper last night fully demonstrates the dangers faced by police officers day in, day out, says the chair of Hertfordshire Police Federation.

Geoff Bardell has expressed his sympathy to the 28-year-old PC’s family and friends, as well as his police colleagues.

PC Harper was responding to a burglary at around 11.30pm on Thursday when he was allegedly hit by a car in Sulhamstead, Berkshire, dragged under the vehicle for a distance and then struck by another car. 

“Our thoughts and sympathy goes to PC Harper’s family and loved ones. He had left home to go to work and serve his community but tragically never returned at the end of his shift,” says Geoff.

“This devastating incident serves to remind us all of the risks officers face while they are fighting and preventing crime, keeping order and protecting the vulnerable in our communities.

“PC Harper has made the ultimate sacrifice while doing his job and that sacrifice should never be forgotten.”

Ten males, aged 13 to 30, have been arrested on suspicion of murder and are being held in custody in police stations in the Thames Valley area.

PC Harper’s death comes just days after a Met PC was attacked with a machete and a West Midlands PC was run over by a suspected car thief.