The family of a young police officer who was killed by a train last week have paid a touching tribute to their 'much-loved' relative.
PC Alex Ayre was killed when he was hit by a train in Dorset on Friday, September 25. He was 24 years old. He was a member of Dorset Police, which has issued a tribute to the officer on behalf of his family.
Family's tribute to Alex
In the tribute, his family wrote: “Alex, forever 24. None of us ever imagined we would be having to say goodbye to you so soon. Losing you has left a space in our lives that can never be filled.
“You were a much-loved son, grandson, big brother, little brother, nephew, cousin, best friend and such an important person to so many people. You were deeply loved and respected by your family, friends, colleagues, childhood friends and by so many people whose lives you crossed along the way.”
The tribute continued: “There are so many people who have their own memories of you – funny stories, nights out, childhood memories, work stories, ridiculous moments and conversations that will now mean more than ever. That is the mark you left on people.
Force statement and investigation
“We would give anything to have more time with you, Alex. There were so many more memories still meant to be made. 24 years will never feel like enough, but you filled those years with so much love, laughter and friendship. You will be spoken about, laughed about, cried over and remembered for the rest of our lives.”
In a statement, Dorset Police said “our thoughts are with his loved ones at this very difficult time” over what it called “a very sad death”.
Reportedly, PC Ayre was subject to the “early stages” of a gross misconduct investigation and had been suspended from duty. Dorset Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct over its handling of his suspension, according to The Sun.
Support for colleagues
Chris Wood, the Chair of Dorset Police Federation, said the organisation will “support his colleagues the best we can”. He added: “We are all incredibly saddened by the sudden loss of Alex. The Federation team remains in constant contact with the Force and are supporting his colleagues as best as we can.”
