A POLICE officer, left needing constant medical care after being run over by a prisoner on day-release driving a stolen car has died three years later.

PC Gareth Browning was thrown into the air by a car driven by Luke Haywood whilst he tried to stop the driver in 2013.

The 'hugely respected' 36-year-old died on Saturday, April 1.

Haywood was released from Springhill Prison for day release on November 30 when his friend gave him a stolen car.

He fled down Lower Earley Way towards Shinfield Road hitting speeds of 50mph.

PC Browning and a colleague put a device in the road to try and stop the black Mazda Aerosport.

Haywood tried to swerve round the obstacle, instead hitting the officer.

PC Browning, a father of twins, suffered severe head injuries in the crash.

Chief Constable Francis Habgood said: "Gareth was a hugely respected colleague whose career was brought to an abrupt end when he was seriously injured while on duty.

"Since the incident Gareth needed constant care and was medically retired from the force.

“We continue to support Gareth’s family as well as staff and officers who have been affected by the incident and the sad news of his death.

“The force will be liaising with Gareth’s family as to how we will commemorate his life and death.

“Our thoughts are with Gareth’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

Haywood, then 28, of Chagford Road, Whitley was jailed for nine years at Reading Crown Court in April 2014.

He admitted three charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, aggravated vehicle taking and going equipped for burglary.