The family of a British police officer who died on holiday in Corfu have made an emotional plea for information three years after the tragedy. Hannah Byrne, a 22-year-old Surrey Police officer from Horley, suffered a fatal head injury after falling from a rooftop on the first night of her trip to Kavos on September 1, 2023.
Her mother, Sarah Warner, appealed to potential witnesses: "Even the smallest detail could make a huge difference. We just want to know what happened so we can grieve at last."
Parliamentary Debate Raises Hopes
The case was raised in Parliament by local MP Chris Coghlan, who urged the government to accelerate the investigation. He revealed that two British women who may have been present at the time of the fall fled the scene without speaking to Greek police. Greek authorities requested permission in 2024 for UK police to interview these women, but Coghlan said the family still does not know if the Home Office responded.
Minister of State for Security Dame Angela Eagle offered condolences but cited "legal confidentiality obligations" and could not confirm or deny receipt of the Greek request. She agreed to meet with Coghlan to discuss the case.
Sixth Inquest Adjournment
The West Sussex, Brighton & Hove Coroner Service adjourned the administrative hearing for the sixth time on Tuesday, July 14, until December, because Greek authorities have not concluded their investigation. The Office of the Public Prosecutor in Corfu told the BBC the case file is still at the preliminary investigation stage and declined to disclose information.
Family's Ongoing Grief
Hannah's brother, Ollie, who attended the House of Commons debate, described the experience as "bittersweet." He said: "Things should never have got to this stage, but hopefully this is a step in the right direction in terms of getting closure... That way, at least we as a family can grieve."
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed contact with Greek authorities and the UK coroner, stating: "Our consular staff are in regular contact with Ms Byrne's family and we will continue to provide support."
Remembering PC Hannah Byrne
Hannah joined Surrey Police in March 2022 and served in the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Reigate. Her divisional commander described her as a "bright, enthusiastic and respected officer just at the start of her career." Her family remembered her as "beautiful inside and out," "extremely kind, funny, caring and had a real zest for life."
