Sophie police escort could face death crash charge
A POLICE motorcyclist escorting Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, may be charged with causing death by dangerous driving after crashing into a pensioner, causing fatal injuries.
Helen Holland, 81, was hit by the Scotland Yard motorcyclist on a dual carriageway in London on May 10.
She died two weeks later of what her son Martin described as ‘multiple broken bones and massive internal injuries’. Now the officer involved, who has not been named, is under criminal investigation for the offences of causing death by dangerous driving and causing death by careless or inconsiderate driving.
They are also being investigated for potential gross misconduct.
Yesterday, Independent Office for Police Conduct operations director Amanda Rowe said: ‘Our thoughts remain with Ms Holland’s family, friends and everyone affected by her death.
‘This is a tragic incident and it is important we carry out a thorough, independent investigation to establish the full circumstances, which will include the actions and decision- making of the officer under investigation.
‘We have been in regular contact with Ms Holland’s family and we will keep them updated. At the end of our investigation, we will decide whether to refer the matter to the Crown Prosecution Service for a charging decision and whether the officer should face disciplinary proceedings.’
Investigators are reviewing officers’ bodycam footage of the incident. Witness accounts have also been taken, following an appeal for information about the crash.
The victim had been visiting her sister in London when she was struck at the junction in West Cromwell Road, Earl’s Court.
A Buckingham Palace spokesman said Sophie, who is married to the King’s youngest brother, will get in touch privately with the pensioner’s relatives. They added: ‘ Her Royal Highness’s deepest condolences and sympathies go to all of Ms Holland’s family.’
Ms Holland’s son Martin and his wife Lisa welcomed the investigation but revealed that they were still waiting for her body to be returned to them.
They told the Mail: ‘We have every confidence now that the IOPC will properly investigate the avoidable death of our mum.’
‘Deepest condolences’