Wiltshire Police update after officer ‘seriously injured’
The officer was injured during an incident at the junction of Faringdon Road and Westcott Place, at around 11.20pm on Saturday, January 13.[1] A 17-year-old boy was arrested close to the scene on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of an offensive weapon. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries.
Police believe the officer, a Police Constable from the Roads Policing Unit, was hit by an electric motorcycle. He sustained serious injuries and remains in hospital nearly 48 hours later. His family and colleagues have been supporting him.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper labelled the alleged incident “profoundly shocking”. She said: “Following this deeply concerning incident, my thoughts are with the officer and his family and friends. “Such incidents, whilst thankfully rare, are profoundly shocking and I am aware that this feeling is echoed throughout the Wiltshire Police family and our communities.
Thank you for your support. “Our officers place themselves in harm’s way on a daily basis in order to keep the people of Swindon and Wiltshire safe. I know that this is appreciated by the vast majority of the communities we serve.
Chief Constable Roper also thanked members of the public who acted to assist police, allowing the injured officer to receive care quickly. She added: “In addition to the officer himself, I would like to pay tribute to the professional and swift actions of colleagues, and the members of the public who also assisted, so that the suspect was rapidly detained and the officer was given immediate care for his injuries. “Our investigation into the circumstances continues, and every effort is being made to ensure justice is served.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson said he was “appalled” by the officers’ injuries. He added: “I am utterly appalled to hear a police officer has sustained serious injury whilst on duty. “I hope the officer makes a good recovery and is able to return to duty as soon as they are able but we must not under-estimate the mental effects, which can be long-lasting.
“We are all grateful the police officer escaped life-threatening injuries.”
Detectives are continuing to investigate and have appealed for anyone with information or dashcam footage that may help their enquiries to come forward.
Any witnesses to the incident have been urged to contact police as a matter of urgency by calling 101 and referencing log number 54240004756.