Police officer dies on M8 after being hit by tanker

AN off-duty police officer has died after being struck by a tanker truck on a busy motorway.

Detective Constable Ian Smollet, 35, stepped out of a vehicle on the hard shoulder of the M8 outside Edinburgh when he was hit by a Leyland DAF tanker truck.

The father of two from Livingston, West Lothian, suffered serious injuries in the collision which took place on Thursday afternoon.

He was taken to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary but lost his battle for life that evening.

Police Scotland offered their sympathies to Mr Smollet’s wife Laura, his two young daughters and the rest of his family and friends.

Chief Superintendent Gill Imery said: ‘It is with the deepest regret I can confirm that Detective Constable Ian Smollet, who served in the Lothians and Scottish Borders Division, has died following Thursday’s collision.

‘Our sympathies are with his family, friends and colleagues at this very difficult time.

‘Road policing officers are continuing their investigation and I would urge any members of the public who witnessed the collision or who believe they can assist with this inquiry to contact police immediately.’

The collision took place between junctions two and three on the westbound carriageway and the road was closed for at least five hours.

Speaking from the family home yesterday, Mrs Smollet’s mother said the family were too upset to comment.

However, neighbours and friends expressed their shock and sadness.

Neighbour Bernard Donnelly, 50, said: ‘It is tragic, they were a lovely young couple. It is so sad because he had two young daughters.’

Rachel Smith, 40, said: ‘I am in complete shock. The family has always been very friendly, it’s so upsetting.’