Source link : https://london-news.net/headline-royal-escort-motorcyclist-faces-criticism-over-fatal-collision-with-pedestrian-as-court-hears-driving-standard-was-lacking/
A police motorcyclist involved in the fatal collision with an 81-year-old woman while escorting the Duchess of Edinburgh was reported to have been “operating below the expected standards,” according to courtroom testimony.
PC Christopher Harrison, 68, a member of the Metropolitan Police, was part of the royal escort when he struck Helen Holland at a pedestrian crossing in Earl’s Court, West London, on May 10, 2023. Mrs. Holland succumbed to her injuries in the hospital two weeks later.
The Old Bailey heard that PC Harrison was allegedly traveling at speeds between 44mph and 58mph as he approached a red traffic light at West Cromwell Road, which has a designated speed limit of 30mph. He faces charges of causing death through careless driving, which he denies.
Johnathan Moody, deputy chief training instructor with Lancashire Police, testified that he was commissioned by the Independent Office for Police Conduct to investigate the incident. He remarked, “The actions observed do not reflect what I would expect from a skilled rider.”
After reviewing interviews, transcripts, and body-worn camera footage, Mr. Moody stated, “During the primary 15-minute escort, the majority of intersections and hazards were managed competently.” However, he emphasized that the response to the final signal—a red light—was not what he would have anticipated from a properly functioning motorcycle and its rider.
He noted that “in most cases,” the escort proceeded as would be…
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Publish date : 2025-11-11 17:18:00
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