A manhunt is under way after a police officer was mown down and killed by a stolen vehicle after a burglary at an estate agent’s in the early hours of this morning.
Oxton Estates, Woodchurch Road, Birkenhead, was apparently broken into just after 1am.
During the burglary, a red Mitsubishi pick-up vehicle, reportedly covered in Oxton Estates’ branding, was stolen from outside the agent’s office.
The vehicle was spotted by a police patrol car, being driven at speed, and a pursuit began.
The Mistubishi mounted a central reservation where two officers were standing after deploying a “stinger” device, designed to stop stolen cars during pursuit.
The vehicle struck one of the officers before making off at speed.
The injured officer, PC David Phillips, 34, was taken to a nearby hospital but pronounced dead shortly after.
The stolen Mitsubishi was found abandoned soon afterwards.
PC Phillips was married with two small children.
The estate agent’s premises are now cordoned off as forensic examinations take place.
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.
The estate agency office where the burglary took place
Policeman David Phillips and his family
PC David Phillips
Comments (1)
I am sure I can speak for all in the property profession and our deepest sympathy goes out to the wife, children and entire family of PC David Phillips.