Duchess of Edinburgh police escort crash: IOPC appeal as elderly woman left critically injured

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is appealing for witnesses after an elderly woman was hit by a police motorcycle that was escorting the Duchess of Edinburgh.

The incident happened at 3.21pm on Wednesday May 10 at the junction of Cromwell Road and Warwick Road in west London.

The woman, who is in her 80s, sustained serious injuries and was taken to hospital, where she remains in a critical but stable condition.

Initial accounts have been taken from officers involved and some witnesses to the collision have been identified along with CCTV from nearby properties, said the IOPC.

IOPC regional director Amanda Rowe said: “Our thoughts are with the woman, who has sustained life-threatening injuries, and her family. We have been in touch with them to explain our role and will keep them regularly updated as the investigation progresses.

“While some witnesses to the collision have been identified, it’s important that as part of our enquiries we speak with anyone who witnessed or recorded any part of this incident to help us establish the full circumstances.”

Buckingham Palace said the duchess, Sophie, who is married to Prince Edward, was “grateful for the swift response by the emergency services”.

In a short statement, the palace said: “The duchess’s heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the injured lady and her family.

“She is grateful for the swift response by the emergency services and will keep abreast of developments.

“Further comment at this time would not be appropriate while the incident is being investigated.”

Anyone with any information can contact the IOPC on 0300 303 5621 or email [email protected].