A murder investigation was launched Monday in Liverpool after burglars fleeing a crime scene in a stolen auto hit and killed a police officer.
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A police officer and father of two young children was mown down and killed as he tried to stop a stolen pick-up truck which was being pursued after a burglary.
The stolen vehicle was found abandoned nearby a short time later, Merseyside Police said.
Stunned colleagues have paid tribute to PC Phillips on Facebook.
“On behalf of Bedfordshire Police Federation, I would like to express my sympathies to PC Phillips’ loved ones”, says Jim, “Tragic incidents such as this illustrate the very real dangers police officers face as they carry out their duties, serving their communities”.
“Sadly the driver of this vehicle has been so reckless that he’s taken the life of a police officer”, he said.
“He didn’t stand a chance”, said chief constable Sir Jon Murphy.
He and another policeman were standing on the reservation after placing a “stop stick” – a device used to bring vehicles to a halt during chases – in the road. You will be missed by all of D Block.
“His colleagues and friends have (lost) a respected and truly exceptional officer”.
Scores of emergency services personnel and members of the public have offered their condolences on Twitter using the hashtag #999family.
Lucy Parrott, an ambulance dispatcher for West Midland’s Ambulance Service, wrote: “Heartbreaking news about Mersey Police this morning”.
A forensic tent stands in Corbyn Street near the junction with Montrose Avenue and Birkenhead Road in Seacombe following the tragic death of PC David Phillips, who was killed after being involved in a collision with a stolen truck.
“Diversions have been put in place at Wallasey Road North and Woodchurch Road, Birkenhead, and if possible motorists are asked to avoid the area and find alternative routes”.
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Anyone who has any information which could help the police with their inquiries is asked to contact 0151 777 2263, or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
