North Yorkshire Police "devastated" at loss of police officer after death
Chief Constable Tim Forber paid tribute to PC Rosie Prior who died on Saturday
Last updated 12th Jan 2025
The Chief Constable of North Yorkshire Police has said that the entire force is "devastated" at the loss of a police officer on Saturday (January 11th).
PC Rosie Prior died following a serious collision on the A19 at Bagby near Thirsk at around 8:55am.
The officer, who worked in responding to collisions and other incidents had pulled over to help other drivers who had been in a separate collision between a black Ford Focus and a silver Audi.
However, while she was dealing with the earlier collision, PC Prior was struck by a heavy goods vehicle.
As well as this, the driver of the Audi car, Ryan Welford - aged 41 from Knaresborough, also died at the scene.
A teenage boy who had been inside the Audi at the time of the crash was taken to hospital for his injuries and remains in a serious condition.
The 65-year-old driver of the lorry, from Berwick-upon-Tweed, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, and is currently released pending further investigation.
Paying tribute to the fallen police officer, Chief Constable Tim Forber from North Yorkshire Police said: "It is with profound sadness to confirm the death of PC Rosie Prior on Saturday morning who was tragically killed while helping at the scene of a separate collision on the A19 near Bagby.
“We are doing everything we can to support Rosie’s family, along with the family of a man who was also tragically killed in the incident.
“This is clearly a deeply traumatic and heartbreaking event for everyone involved and we ask that the two families are left alone to grieve in peace. They do not want any media outlets to contact or approach them.
"Rosie’s response team colleagues in York, and from around the force, are being supported at this extremely difficult time."
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper also paid tribute to the two victims of the crash, saying that she was "deeply saddened" upon hearing their loss.
"Thinking of their families & friends and all PC Prior's colleagues at this incredibly difficult time. It is a tragic reminder of the dedication & bravery police officers show each day to keep us safe," she added.