Police Officer Killed in Horror Crash on the A7
A serving police officer has tragically died in a crash involving his Yamaha R6 bike and a Peugeot 107 on the A7 in the Scottish Borders.
Tragic Collision Near Galashiels
The deadly smash happened just after 12.25pm on Sunday, 15th July, north of Galashiels. PC Rhys Prentice, 24, was riding his Yamaha R6 southbound when it collided head-on with a silver Peugeot 107 travelling north.
PC Prentice was pronounced dead at the scene. Both occupants of the Peugeot were seriously injured and rushed to Borders General Hospital.
Family Pays Heartbreaking Tribute
“We are absolutely devastated at the loss of Rhys – our much loved son, brother, fiancé and friend,” said his family in a statement through Police Scotland. “Rhys was an enthusiastic biker and a dedicated police officer. He made us all very proud and words cannot describe how much we will miss him.”
Police and Community Mourn a Popular Officer
Chief Superintendent Lesley Clark, Lothians and Scottish Borders Divisional Commander, described the loss as “a sad day for the division.”
“Rhys was a young and enthusiastic officer, stationed in East Lothian, who will be deeply missed. He was popular and devoted, and support is being given to his colleagues. His family and fiancée were exceptionally proud of his career, and our thoughts remain with them at this tragic time.”
Investigation Underway – Witnesses Urged to Come Forward
Sergeant Ross Drummond from Dalkeith’s Road Policing Unit is leading the probe into the fatal collision. The A7 was closed for about eight hours while officers examined the scene.
He urged anyone who saw the incident to come forward. “This tragedy has shocked the community. We are working to piece together exactly what happened.”
Witnesses can contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2195 of 15th July.
