Investigations are ongoing into the string of events that led to the death of PC Rosie Prior and Ryan Welford, who were struck by an HGV on the A19 near Thirsk on Saturday (July 11) just before 9am.
Officers are now focusing on a separate crash between an Audi and Ford Focus that happened just ten minutes before the pair were struck, which led PC Prior to stop at the scene to help.
PC Rosie Prior. (Image: NORTH YORKSHIRE POLICE) Both Rosie and Ryan, 41, were pronounced dead at the scene. Another person remains in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
The driver of the HGV, a 65-year-old man from Berwick-upon-Tweed, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving following the incident.
He has been released under investigation.
North Yorkshire Police are now looking for witnesses with dashcam footage or information about the first crash to come forward.
DI Jill Cowling from the Major Collision investigation Team said: “Our thoughts remain with the families of Rosie and Ryan and we are doing all we can to support them at this incredibly difficult time.
Ryan Welford, 41. (Image: NORTH YORKSHIRE POLICE) “A thorough and complex investigation is underway and any information no matter how small is helpful. We are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any part of this incident including those who may have only seen the initial collision involving the Focus and the Audi.
“If you saw what happened or have any information at all that could assist our enquiries, please get in touch.”
People are asked email MCIT@northyorkshire.police.uk or call North Yorkshire Police on 101. Please quote reference number 12250006038 when passing information.
Following the tragic incident, tributes flooded in from across the country for PC Prior and Ryan Welford.
A floral tribute outside Fulford Road Police Station in York, following the death of Police constable Rosie Prior (Image: PA) PC Prior’s family said that she was “a loving mum, wife, daughter, sister, aunty and will be deeply missed”.
The family of Ryan Welford’s family paid tribute to their son, saying: “Ryan was a hardworking and loving father, husband, son and brother.
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“He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.”
David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, and Jo Coles, deputy mayor of policing, fire and crime, said today they were “devastated”.
Their statement read: “Our hearts are broken for them and their families. Rosie’s commitment to serving the public, even when off duty, shows she was the very best of us.
“Our thoughts are also with the entire North Yorkshire Police family, who we know will be deeply mourning their colleague.
“We especially want to thank officers and staff who worked at the scene and are supporting those affected by this tragedy.”