Off-Duty Police Officer Rosie Prior Killed While Assisting Crash Victims

North Yorkshire, UK. (THECOUNT) — Off-duty police officer, Rosie Prior, and driver, Ryan Welford, perished in a tragic accident on the A19 near Bagby, North Yorkshire, after being struck by a truck while assisting at the scene of an earlier crash. The incident occurred on Saturday, January 11, at approximately 8:55 a.m. local time.

According to a press release from North Yorkshire Police, Prior, a 45-year-old response officer based in York, had stopped to help motorists involved in a collision between a black Ford Focus and a silver Audi. Rosie Prior, along with Welford, 45, from Knaresborough, were both killed when a heavy goods vehicle collided with them on the highway.

The driver of the truck, a 65-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He has been released under investigation as the police continue their inquiries.

North Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Tim Forber expressed his profound sadness over the loss of PC Rosie Prior, stating, “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.” He added that support was being provided to both families involved and requested that the media respect their privacy during this time of mourning.

Rosie Prior joined the police force in May 2022 as a student officer. Her family remembered her as a “loving mum, wife, daughter, sister and auntie” who would be deeply missed. Similarly, Ryan Welford’s family described him as a “hardworking and loving father, husband, son and brother,” highlighting the profound loss felt by both families.

The police force has assured that they are supporting Rosie’s colleagues and are managing the ongoing investigation to ascertain the full circumstances of this tragic event. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

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