Investigators from the police watchdog have been sent to the scene of a fatal car crash involving a police car.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) today confirmed to the ECHO that the watchdog's investigation into the death of Rachael Louise Moore was under way. Ms Moore was hit and killed by a marked police car travelling on Sheil Road, Kensington, at around 8.10pm on Christmas Eve.
Emergency services rushed to the busy main road but the 22-year-old was confirmed at the scene to have died of her injuries. Merseyside Police closed Sheil Road and a number of adjoining side streets while officers carried out enquiries in the local area.
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Merseyside Police confirmed the incident had been referred to the IOPC. Mandatory referrals are made to the IOPC should a person die or sustain serious injuries following police contact. Merseyside Police added it was also appealing for witnesses and CCTV footage to help with the investigation.
A spokesperson for the IOPC told the ECHO today, Wednesday, December 28 that investigators had visited the scene and the post-incident procedures to start gathering evidence had been carried out. The watchdog also confirmed it had been in contact with Ms Moore's family to explain its role.
The IOPC spokesperson said: "We can confirm we have begun an independent investigation relating to a fatal collision that occurred on Sheil Road in Liverpool on December 24, involving a vehicle and a pedestrian. A 22-year-old woman died after a police vehicle responding to an incident collided with the woman at around 8.10pm. The woman has been named as Rachael Louise Moore.
"Our sympathies are with Rachael’s family and friends and to all those affected by this tragic incident. We have been in contact with the family to express our condolences and explain our role. After being notified about the incident by Merseyside Police we sent investigators to the scene and to the post incident procedures to begin gathering the available evidence. Our investigation is in its very early stages."
People on Sheil Road told the ECHO at the time the incident was "heartbreaking" being so close to Christmas Day. An eyewitness later revealed she heard a "bang" when the car hit Ms Moore - and later saw "police picking up all the lady's Christmas present bags off the floor at the scene."
In a heartbreaking tribute, Ms Moore's family said she was the "cherished daughter of Alison and Ian, sister to Ben and much loved granddaughter of nana Sue. Partner to Jack and caring friend to many."
The family, who also released a picture of Ms Moore on her university graduation, added: "She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched. The family requests their privacy be respected at this devastating time."
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