In a harrowing display of violence on one of Britain's busiest motorways, shocking body-worn camera footage has revealed the moment a police officer was deliberately struck by a lorry driver during a routine traffic stop on the M25.
The incident, which occurred near junction 14 for Heathrow Airport, shows Thames Valley Police officers approaching a stationary HGV on the hard shoulder before the situation escalates dramatically.
The Terrifying Confrontation
As officers speak with driver Robert Paul Garner through his cab window, the 54-year-old suddenly starts his engine and accelerates directly into PC James Willett. The officer is thrown onto the bonnet before being dragged along the road as the lorry continues moving.
"Get out of the truck now!" officers can be heard shouting as the vehicle continues to move with PC Willett still in perilous position on the front.
Dramatic Taser Intervention
With the situation rapidly deteriorating and their colleague in immediate danger, another officer deploys a Taser through the open cab window. The electrical charge causes Garner to lose control of the massive vehicle, which veers across the hard shoulder before coming to a stop against the barrier.
PC Willett can be seen falling from the bonnet as the lorry finally halts, having suffered what police described as "significant injuries" during the terrifying ordeal.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
Garner, of Waltham Abbey, Essex, pleaded guilty to causing serious injury by dangerous driving and assault occasioning actual bodily harm at Reading Crown Court. The 54-year-old now faces sentencing next month, with judge Mr Justice Wall warning him to expect a substantial prison term.
Thames Valley Police Assistant Chief Constable Tim Metcalfe condemned the attack, stating: "This was a horrific incident that demonstrates the very real dangers our officers face every day while protecting the public."
The released footage serves as a stark reminder of the risks police officers confront during routine traffic stops on Britain's road network.
