Family's Heartbreaking Tribute to PC Bradley Corke, Killed in Line of Duty
The family of a police officer who died while responding to an urgent emergency call over the weekend have paid a deeply emotional tribute, stating they are 'broken and will probably never recover' from their loss. PC Bradley Corke, aged 27, passed away on Saturday after sustaining critical injuries in a severe collision in Farningham, near Swanley, two days earlier.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The collision occurred at approximately 7:45 PM on Thursday on the westbound A20 London Road at the junction with Button Street. A marked Ford Focus police car, in which PC Corke was traveling, collided with a Volkswagen Scirocco. In addition to PC Corke's fatal injuries, a colleague was left in critical condition, and a member of the public in the second vehicle received treatment for serious injuries.
PC Corke, who was based in Tonbridge, joined Kent Police in May 2022 and served communities across west Kent. His dedication to his profession was highlighted in the family's statement, which praised his commitment to helping others.
Family's Moving Statement
In a statement released today, PC Corke's family described him as a 'true gentleman' and 'one of the finest young men ever to have walked this Earth'. They expressed their devastation, saying, 'Our beautiful boy, so cruelly taken away from us far too young.'
The tribute continued: 'Bradley was a credit to himself, to us as parents, and to all his family and friends who loved him dearly. He was proud to be PC Bradley Corke, and in turn, we are proud of his dedication to the profession.'
The family also noted the overwhelming support they have received, particularly from individuals PC Corke assisted during his service. 'We have taken comfort from the kind words of those he helped in his line of duty, supporting them in their hour of need. It comes as no surprise that so many had such a positive experience in his presence, because that's just Brad – a true gentleman in every situation.'
Concluding with a poignant message, they added: 'Son, we are broken and will probably never recover from your loss, but we hope we can draw strength from all that you are and forever will be. We love you with every ounce of our being. Sleep tight our most beautiful boy.'
Response from Kent Police Federation
Neil Mennie, chairman of the Kent Police Federation, issued a statement expressing collective grief. 'We are all absolutely heartbroken to learn of this news. Bradley was a popular colleague who will be much missed, and we will be doing all we can to support his family and close colleagues at this time.'
He emphasized the risks faced by police officers, stating: 'Policing is a family, and words cannot describe the pain we are all feeling. This sad incident serves as a horrific example of the risks police officers face and how they can make the ultimate sacrifice to keep the public safe.'
Ongoing Investigation and Appeal
Kent Police have continued to appeal for information regarding the collision, urging anyone with details to come forward to assist in the investigation. The incident underscores the dangers inherent in police work and has sparked an outpouring of condolences from the community and beyond.
