Woman died after being 'flung into air' by police motorbike escorting Royal Family member - Daily Star

Helen Holland, an 81-year-old woman, tragically died two weeks after being struck by a police motorcyclist while crossing the street in Earl's Court, West London. The collision happened on May 10, 2023, at a pedestrian crossing on West Cromwell Road. Helen was hit and literally flung into the air by PC Christopher Harrison, a Metropolitan Police officer escorting Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh. The court heard that Harrison was driving between 44mph and 58mph in a 30mph zone, which has since been reduced to 20mph to improve safety in the area. PC Harrison denies causing death by careless driving. However, prosecutors argue that despite being allowed to exceed speed limits and proceed through red lights as part of his escort duties, he still had a responsibility to drive with care and caution. Eyewitness Diana Cetara described the shocking scene, recalling how Helen was crossing when she was hit and thrown into the air. The court was told that Harrison should have anticipated pedestrians at the crossing and adapted his driving accordingly, but he failed to do so. The escort was part of a convoy leaving the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office, with multiple motorcycles and police support vehicles accompanying the Duchess. The motorcyclists operate a 'leapfrog' system where they relay information about traffic signals and hazards to each other. Before the incident, the first motorcycle passed through the crossing when the light was green, and the second confirmed the light had turned red. Despite this, Harrison ran the red light some 18 seconds later and collided with Mrs. Holland, who was legally crossing the road. Prosecutor Michelle Heeley KC emphasized that Harrison’s role was not only to clear the path but also to manage potential risks, including stopping at pedestrian crossings if necessary. The motorcyclists carry whistles and have blue lights to warn pedestrians and other road users. If the crossing is red or if pedestrians are present, the motorcyclist’s duty is to control the crossing, which can involve stopping traffic and ensuring pedestrian safety. Unfortunately, Harrison neither stopped nor saw Helen, who was reportedly about three meters into the carriageway when the collision occurred. In his interview, Harrison admitted he did not see Mrs. Holland and claimed she appeared suddenly. The prosecution contested this, stating Helen must have been waiting at the side of the road before crossing. After the incident, Harrison’s motorcycle was inspected and found free of faults that might have caused or contributed to the crash. The trial continues as the court considers whether Harrison’s actions amounted to careless driving resulting in a fatality.