Driver admits killing police staff member

A motorist who attempted to overtake on a bend before colliding with the vehicle of a police staff member has today (Tuesday 6 September) pleaded guilty to causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of a road traffic collision following an injury.

On Saturday 3 July 2021, Local Support Team Officer (LSTO) Darcy Elizabeth Reid was travelling citybound in her Nissan Micra along the A47 Hinckley Road, close to Braunstone Park, Leicester, when she was hit head on by a VW Golf – being driven by Connor Wilsher.

Darcy, who was 23, sustained multiple injuries as a result of the collision and died in hospital a few weeks later. Wilsher left the scene of the incident before police arrived but was arrested a short time later.

Following a thorough investigation by the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit (SCIU), it was established the 21-year-old of Coleorton Lane, Packington, Leicestershire, had attempted to overtake another vehicle on a bend and had collided with the driver’s side of Darcy’s car.

He was charged with causing death by dangerous driving and failing to stop after a road accident – which he also admitted.

At Leicester Crown Court he pleaded guilty to both counts, has received an immediate disqualification to his driving licence and is due to be sentenced on Friday 4 November.

Detective Sergeant Ed Des-Chanelle, from the SCIU, said: “Wilsher attempted to make a dangerous manoeuvre on a busy road which resulted in the death of Darcy.

“After the collision occurred he also left the scene and was located by police when he presented himself at hospital for treatment. I am pleased he has now taken responsibility for his actions that day and has spared Darcy’s family and friends the pain of having to relive the events in court.”

Temporary Deputy Chief Constable David Sandall said: “Darcy was a popular member of our team. She worked as a LSTO at Keyham Lane station but before her tragic death she had also recently passed her police officer assessment and was waiting a start date to begin her career as a PC.

“Her death has affected so many people across the force and we continue to offer support to her colleagues, as well as her family, who have been supported by a dedicated family liaison officer throughout the investigation.

“Nothing will bring Darcy back but I hope today’s admission in court will allow her family and all who knew her to be able to move forward and remember the happy times they shared with her.”