The parents of a teenage police officer who tragically died from injuries sustained while on duty have paid an emotional tribute, describing their daughter as their 'greatest pride and greatest joy'. PC Jess Turnbull, 19, was fatally injured when a Mercedes, unrelated to an initial incident, struck a marked police vehicle she was attending. The incident occurred on the A189 Spine Road in Cramlington, Northumberland, on 8th June, with PC Turnbull succumbing to her injuries two days later in hospital.
In a statement released via Northumbria Police, Janice and Andy Turnbull expressed their utter devastation at the loss of their 'remarkable' and 'only child'. They highlighted Jess's profound impact on their lives, stating she brought 'happiness, laughter, and love into every day'. The statement also detailed the special bond between Jess and her mother, Janice, who were not only mother and daughter but also best friends, sharing countless treasured memories.
Jess had joined Northumbria Police in September, fulfilling a long-held ambition to follow in her father Andy's footsteps. Her parents recounted how becoming a police officer was 'one of Jess's proudest achievements', and she 'absolutely loved serving her community'. From a young age, Jess was characterised by her 'energy, determination and kindness', with a passion for helping others evident through her involvement in sport, including playing football and competitive swimming, and later coaching young children.
The statement also touched upon her relationship with her boyfriend, Dan, with whom she had been 'inseparable' for a year. Her parents emphasised that policing was 'not just a job to Jess, it was a calling', driven by a deep care for helping people and making a difference. They concluded by expressing their immense pride in the 'remarkable young woman Jess became' and thanked the public for their 'overwhelming kindness, support and condolences'.
Northumbria's Chief Constable, Vanessa Jardine, last week praised PC Turnbull as a 'dedicated and committed' officer who had 'so much still to look forward to in her career and her life'. Similarly, the Northumbria Police Federation noted her lasting impression on colleagues due to her 'dedication, professionalism, and readiness to help people'. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash are ongoing, and authorities have appealed for anyone with information to come forward.
A 73-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving in connection with the incident. He has since been released on bail as the inquiry continues.
Source: Northumbria Police