Police Officer to Appear in Court Over Fatal Collision
A Merseyside Police officer has been charged with causing death by careless driving after a 22-year-old carer was struck and killed by a patrol vehicle responding to an emergency call on Christmas Eve 2022.
PC Scott Thompson, aged 32, is scheduled to appear at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Monday following an extensive investigation into the incident that claimed the life of Rachael Moore.
Tragic Details of Christmas Eve Incident
The collision occurred at approximately 8:10pm on December 24, 2022 on Sheil Road in the Kensington area of Liverpool. Ms Moore, who worked as a carer and was studying at Liverpool Hope University, was walking home from her shift when the police vehicle struck her.
Despite the immediate efforts of emergency services at the scene, Rachael Moore was pronounced dead at the location of the collision. The officer involved was responding to an unrelated emergency call at the time of the tragic incident.
Investigation and Family Tributes
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) conducted a mandatory investigation after the force referred the case. An IOPC statement confirmed they had consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service throughout their inquiry, which led to the authorisation of charges against PC Thompson last month.
In a heartfelt statement released after her death, Rachael's family described her as their 'cherished daughter' who would be 'greatly missed by all those lives she touched'. They remembered the 22-year-old as a beloved partner to Jack, a caring friend to many, and a dedicated sister and granddaughter.
Liverpool Hope University, where Ms Moore had been studying philosophy, religion and ethics, held a memorial service following the tragedy. University vice-chancellor Dr Penny Haughan paid tribute, stating Rachael was 'a committed, diligent student with a bright future' who would be remembered for her kindness and passion for social justice.
