Dorset Police have confirmed that a serving police officer died last Friday morning after being struck by a train near Branksome.
PC Alex Ayre, 24, who joined the force in June 2022, was pronounced dead at the scene. It is understood that the officer took his own life.
In a statement released following the tragedy, Dorset Police revealed that PC Ayre had been suspended from duty prior to his death. The force confirmed he was the subject of an ongoing investigation into allegations of gross misconduct related to his behaviour while off-duty.
Dorset Police Chief Constable Rachel Farrell addressed the circumstances surrounding the officer’s death, emphasizing that the investigation was in its infancy at the time of the incident.
“Prior to his death, Alex was the subject of a gross misconduct investigation in relation to behaviour off-duty and was suspended from duty,” Chief Constable Farrell said. “It is important to note that suspension is not a presumption of wrongdoing, and the misconduct investigation was in the very early stages.”
As is mandatory in cases involving the death of an individual who had been subject to police conduct procedures, Dorset Police have referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
“As is mandatory in these circumstances, a referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, and we welcome any transparent review,” Chief Constable Farrell added.
Following the news of his death, PC Ayre’s family released a heartfelt tribute to the 24-year-old, remembering him as a cherished presence in the lives of his friends and relatives.
“You were a much-loved son, grandson, big brother, little brother, nephew, cousin, best friend and such an important person to so many people,” the family wrote.
They described a man who was defined by his kindness and his ability to connect with others, noting his constant willingness to support those around him. “You were always there for people, always happy to help, always thinking about how other people were feeling, and always someone people knew they could turn to when they needed you,” the tribute continued.
Remembering his character, the family added: “You were the life and soul of the party, the cheeky one who could make absolutely anyone laugh. You brought so much laughter, warmth and personality wherever you went.”
The investigation into the circumstances of his death, alongside the review of the force’s handling of the misconduct case, remains ongoing.
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