Merseyside: Woman killed by police car had ‘hands full of gifts’

An eyewitness to when a young woman was hit by a police car and killed on Christmas Eve said she “will never get her out of my mind”.

Rachael Louise Moore, 22, had been buying gifts when she died in a “heartbreaking” incident in Kensington, Merseyside.

Her “devastated” family paid tribute to the “caring and beloved” graduate as the police station launches an investigation.

One of the first people to arrive at the Sheil Road scene has described the moment she heard a “bang”.

“My friend’s sister-in-law said the woman was waiting to cross the street and had Christmas shopping bags in both hands,” they said.

“The girl was about to cross the street and was suddenly hit by a police car. I heard a bang and ran after my friend.

“The police gave her CPR but I think she was dead on impact. Seeing her lying there in the cold is something I’ll never forget. I will never get them out of my mind – their poor family.”

The eyewitness added that she saw “police picking up all the lady’s Christmas gift bags off the ground.”

Emergency services rushed to the busy main road after the incident, but Rachael died at the scene around 8.10pm.

Other people who were there said it was “heartbreaking” that it happened hours before Christmas.

Rachael’s loved ones posted a picture of her graduating from university.

They said: “Rachael Louise Moore aged 22, cherished daughter of Alison and Ian, sister of Ben and much loved granddaughter of Nana Sue. Partner to Jack and caring friend to many.

“She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched. The family asks that their privacy be respected at this devastating time.’

Merseyside Police confirmed the incident was referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

A referral is mandatory when a person dies or is seriously injured following contact with the police.

A police station spokesman said: “Our condolences go out to Rachael’s family and friends and to everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“We have been in touch with the family to offer our condolences and to explain our role.

“After being briefed on the incident by Merseyside Police, we dispatched investigators to the scene and post-incident procedures to begin gathering the available evidence. Our investigation is still at a very early stage.’

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