Family of Harry Dunn speak out during first day of inquest after he died being struck by a car
Published 18:29 10 Jun 2024 GMT+1
Harry Dunn's parents paid an emotional tribute to their son
Harry Dunn's mum and dad have issued a heartbreaking tribute after their teenage son was killed in a motorcycle accident.
The 19-year-old, from Brackley, collided with the car of US government employee Anne Sacoolas after she was driving on the wrong side of the road outside RAF Croughton, in Northamptonshire, in August 2019.
After Sacoolas pleaded guilty to death by careless driving[1], she was given an eight-month suspended jail sentence in December 2022.
She left the country shortly after and was given diplomatic immunity on behalf of the US State Department.
Harry Dunn died after being struck by a car outside a US military base in Northamptonshire. (Family Handout)
Harry's mum Charlotte Charles said at the inquest at Sessions House in Northampton today (10 June), that her son should 'still be alive today'.
“Harry was vibrant, caring, funny and so terribly protective of myself and the rest of my family,” she said.
“He loved winding people up for a giggle. He was sensitive… outspoken, brutally honest, decisive and spontaneous.
“He was ambitious, wanted to go places in life and to leave his mark. He was quick-witted and very intelligent.
“As a family, we have obviously been through a lot since Harry died and had one hell of a fight on our hands to survive.
“However, we have learned that Harry was not the first to die in these circumstances, and sadly he has not been the last.
“We are deeply concerned that the issue of road safety outside US bases may have been neglected by both governments and I would like the coroner to inquire into why that is.
“I feel that Harry should still be alive today.”
Charlotte Charles said that her son should 'still be alive today'. (PA)
Meanwhile, Harry's father Tim Dunn said: “After officially identifying his body with the police, we left the hospital totally numb – not knowing that the real hell was about to start.
“No more Harry, no more hearing him laugh, no more of his cheeky grin, no more days at the football[2].
“When I think back to the night he died it seems unreal, almost like a nightmare.”
He continued: “It felt like I was looking down from above, surveying what was happening but unable to say or change anything.
“I couldn’t believe what was in front of my eyes.
“I would have done anything that night to change the outcome for Harry.
“He would have given so much love, joy and happiness.
“The saddest thing is that the world is a lesser place without him.”
Sacoolas’ lawyer, Ben Cooper KC, said his client had 'provided everything she could to help this inquest' and offered to 'answer any further questions', despite choosing not to appear in court remotely.
The inquest is scheduled to last for four days.
Featured Image Credit: Handout/PA