The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is conducting a criminal investigation into the actions of a Merseyside Police officer in connection with the death of Rachael Moore in Liverpool on Christmas Eve.
The independent investigation follows a mandatory referral from the force as a police vehicle was involved in a fatal collision in the Kensington area of Liverpool on December 24, 2022.
Shortly after 8pm, a singled crewed police car, which had been responding to an unrelated emergency call, collided with 22-year-old Rachael on Sheil Road.
Officers and paramedics attended and treated Rachael for her injuries. She was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.
The IOPC attended the scene and the police post-incident procedures and began reviewing evidence. Further, the IOPC has obtained CCTV footage and conducted a witness appeal.
Based on the IOPC assessment of the available information, it has informed the officer, a police constable, that they are under criminal investigation for potential offences of causing death by dangerous driving.
The police driver has also been served a notice advising they are being investigated for potential gross misconduct in relation to the manner of their driving. This does not necessarily mean disciplinary proceedings or criminal charges will follow.
IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said, “Rachael lost her life in the most tragic circumstances just a day before Christmas. Our thoughts are with her loved ones and all those affected by her death.
“Our investigation will look at the circumstances of the collision, including the actions and decision-making of the police driver and whether they were in line with policy and procedure.
“We have been in contact with Rachael’s family to explain our role and we will keep them updated as our inquiries progress.”
A decision over any potential disciplinary proceedings, referral to the Crown Prosecution Service, or learning arising from this incident will be made by the IOPC on conclusion of the investigation.
Following Rachael’s death, the family issued the following statement: “Rachael Louise Moore aged 22, cherished daughter of Alison and Ian, sister to Ben and much-loved granddaughter of Nana Sue. Partner to Jack and caring friend to many. She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched. The family requests their privacy be respected at this devastating time.”
Also following the incident, Detective Sergeant Kurt Timpson from the MATRIX Serious Collision Investigation Unit said, “Following the death of Rachael we are providing assistance to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) who has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.
“Our sincere thoughts and condolences are with Rachael’s family, who have been left devastated by this tragic incident. Specially trained family Liaison Officers are supporting them at this time.”
Image: Rachael Moore/Family handout
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