Officers across Northamptonshire have been paying tribute to Sergeant Paul Keany, who died while on duty on Wednesday 11 March.

Sam Dobbs, chair of the Northamptonshire Police Federation, said: “This is devastating news for Paul’s family and our heart goes out to them, alongside our deepest condolences. Paul’s Northamptonshire Police family is also reeling, and I pay tribute to his colleagues, his friends, who rendered first aid to someone they knew well.

“I thank all those who gave support through the rest of that tragic Wednesday night, including those who returned to duty to comfort their colleagues.

“It was then so very moving to see representatives from Paul’s wider, national police family standing in tribute as our National Chair, John Apter, led a minute’s silence for Paul at the Police Federation National Council as we met in Bath on Thursday morning, having spoken with me and the Deputy Chief Constable throughout the night and day.

“Like all families, we will stick together and support each other so that those who mourn are comforted and kept in the huge, real and virtual hug which these situations call for. May Paul rest in peace.”

National Chair of the Police Federation of England and Wales John Apter said: “It is always devastating to lose a member of the policing family – when an officer dies it is felt across the policing family and beyond. My thoughts are with Paul’s family, friends and colleagues at this most difficult of times.”

Northamptonshire Chief Constable Nick Adderley said: “My deepest condolences to Paul’s family and loved ones and to his many colleagues who speak so highly of Paul. We will do everything necessary to support Paul’s family and colleagues. May he rest in peace.”

A Northamptonshire Police spokeswoman said: “We are very sad to confirm the death of one of our serving officers, Sergeant Paul Keany, who died while on duty on Wednesday evening.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this devastating time and we would kindly ask the media to respect their privacy while they try to come to terms with his death.

“Sergeant Keany was an extremely popular officer and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.”

Sergeant Keany's death is not being treated as suspicious.