Police Chief Constable releases statement after death of PC Andrew Harper

He expressed his shock and sadness at the death of his colleague who was killed on duty whilst responding to a burglary late at night on Thursday August 15.

Thames Valley Police had been called to an incident near Sulhampstead on the A4 between Reading and Newbury at 11.30pm.

It was here that PC Harper was killed.

Mr Campbell said: "Our thoughts are with Andrew's friends and family, who are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers.

"We are also supporting our officers and staff, on this extremely dark day for the force and wider police family.

"My thanks go to all those staff and officers who attended this incident, as well as our colleagues at the fire service and ambulance service for their professionalism at an extremely distressing scene.

"I also want to thank friends and colleagues from across the police family for all their messages of support.

"As a sign of respect, our flags are flying at half-mast in honour and memory of Andrew."

He continued: "I want to thank all members of the community for their ongoing cooperation.

"I appreciate that this tragic incident will have a devastating impact on the community, but we appreciate your support and of course we are here to offer you support."

Jed Foster, of Pingewood Road S near Burghfield, Reading, denied all involvement after appearing in court yesterday (August 20).

He spoke only to confirm his name and address as he stood in the dock of Reading Magistrates’ Court.

Mr Foster is appearing in Reading Crown Court today (August 21) at 10am.