Police chief pays tribute to heroes of toddlers tragedy
SCOTLAND’S most senior police officer paid a visit to Argyll in the wake of the recent tragic incident in which two toddlers died.
Chief Constable Philip Gormley paid tribute to the police officers and others who were called to the scene, which happened after the car the children were travelling in left the A816 and entered Loch nan Druimnean, near Kilmelford.
Speaking during a visit to Lochgilphead police office on Monday, the chief constable said: ‘I wanted to come to Argyll and thank people for what they did on that tragic day.
‘This is a very unusual kind of incident and the professional manner in which our officers and those from other agencies dealt with it deserves great credit.’
The area commander, Chief Inspector Marlene Baillie, spoke after the meeting. She said: ‘The chief constable’s visit was warmly received by staff. Following the terrible tragedy the other week it was a welcome boost.
‘The work of the officers involved and that of our partners, particularly in Scottish Fire and Rescue, the Scottish Ambulance Service, NHS Highland and HM Coastguard, was extremely difficult and will have a lasting effect.’
She added: ‘ The bravery of members of the public who were at the scene is also deserving of praise as they, without hesitation, put their own lives at risk.
‘Our thoughts and condolences remain very much with the family at this sad time.’