Policeman dies in Xmas Day head-on smash that also kills woman of 61

A POLICEMAN and a 61-yearold woman were killed in a headon car crash as the officer responded to a 999 call on Christmas Day.

The smash happened as the policeman drove at speed down a notorious stretch of A-road near Sheffield, with his marked BMW 3 Series hitting a silver Citroen C3 travelling in the opposite direction.

The 46-year-old officer, who had been responding to an ‘immediate incident’, died shortly after the collision, which happened at 8.15pm.

The woman from Sheffield, who was a passenger, died in hospital, while the 63- year- old Citroen driver was taken to hospital.

He remained in a serious condition last night.

The A57 – one of the main routes into Sheffield from the south – is notorious among locals as a ‘race track’ after a spate of crashes including fatalities.

Four years ago, its speed limit was lowered from 60mph to 50mph after 39 crashes in five years.

Assistant Chief Constable David Hartley, of South Yorkshire Police, paid tribute to the policeman, who has not been identified. He said: ‘The officer has been with us for 12 years and was a passionate, professional and universally liked officer. His colleagues, and everyone across the force, are devastated by what has happened.

‘On behalf of the force I’d like to offer my sincere condolences to all of those left bereaved by this terrible tragedy, our thoughts, love and support are extended to all those affected.

‘We are doing everything we can to support them through this difficult time. We have lost a friend and a colleague from our police family in this incident. Our thoughts are with both families who have lost loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.’

Yesterday other officers changed their social media profile pictures to a blue line and posted tributes to their colleague. Danny Guest said: ‘Absolutely heartbroken to lose my friend and work colleague in such tragic circumstances. Cannot imagine how your family are feeling. Rest in peace mate.

‘My heart also goes out to the family and friends of the lady who also lost her life.’

Gill Hughes said: ‘Sending heartfelt condolences, when an officer falls we all stand head bowed, the police family united in grief.’

One officer said: ‘A tragedy, he was such a nice man. I knew him well for years, it’s a very sad loss. Condolences to all those affected.’

Kerry Pennington said: ‘We saw this crash about five minutes after it happened, it was a heart-breaking scene. My thoughts are with everyone involved.’

Paramedic Paul Leach said: ‘Incredibly sad to read this. As a paramedic I know full well the hazards involved in responding to incidents and can only offer my heartfelt condolences to the family of the officer involved.

‘To lose your life in the service of others is the most heroic act. From the green line to the blue line, rest in peace.’

The Independent Police Complaints Commission has been notified about the crash and is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.