A police officer has been charged with causing the death of an 81-year-old woman by careless driving. Helen Holland, 81, died after she was hit by a motorcycle in the royal escort of Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh. The Crown Prosecution Service has stated that it authorised a charge of causing death by careless driving against Christopher Harrison, 67, following a review of the evidence by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). Harrison is set to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on November 6.
Rosemary Ainslie, head of the CPS Special Crime Division, commented, “The charge follows the death of Helen Holland, 81, after she was involved in a collision with a police motorcyclist at the junction of West Cromwell Road and Warwick Road in Earl’s Court, west London, on 10 May 2023.” A plea was also made by the Crown Prosecution Service for fair treatment and to avoid any sharing of information that could potentially prejudice the ongoing legal proceedings.
Ms. Holland’s son, Martin, revealed to the BBC that she succumbed to “multiple broken bones and massive internal injuries” following the crash. Buckingham Palace expressed their sadness over the incident, with a spokesperson conveying the Duchess of Edinburgh’s condolences to the family of Ms. Holland. The investigation is still ongoing, emphasising the importance of refraining from any actions that could impact the legal process.
The tragic incident involving the death of Ms. Holland has sparked emotions and raised concerns about road safety and the responsibilities of those in positions of authority. The courts and legal authorities continue to work towards delivering justice and ensuring that all parties involved have a fair trial. The case serves as a reminder of the consequences of careless driving and the need for vigilance and adherence to road regulations at all times.