Off-duty police officer killed in motorbike crash (From Sutton Guardian)

Off duty Sutton police officer killed in Mitcham motorbike crash

4:50pm Tuesday 1st May 2012 in News By Matt Watts

An off duty police officer from Sutton was killed in a road traffic collision in Mitcham.

Inspector Preston Gurr, 53, who worked for Westminster police, was returning home from night duty when his red Honda motorcycle was involved in a crash with a silver Mercedes C180.

The incident happened shortly before 7.30am on Saturday, April 28, in London Road, at the junction with Crusoe Road.

Inspector Gurr came off the Honda and sustained serious injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post-mortem was held on Tuesday, May 1, at St George's Hospital Mortuary and cause of death was given as multiple injuries.

The driver of the Mercedes stopped at the scene. He was not arrested.

Preston's widow, Debbie said: "It is hard to describe the utter loss and devastation we feel over the death of Preston.

"He was a wonderful father to Aidan and Kym and a great husband and best friend to me.

"We cannot imagine life without him and wish we could turn back the clock so he could be with us still.

"Policing was in his blood as his brother, Robert is also with the Metropolitan Police Service, and I know how much he was liked and respected by friends and colleagues.

"It is hard to accept that someone who stood for so much good in life is no longer here."

Officers from the Road Death Investigation Unit based at Hampton Traffic Garage are investigating this collision and appeal for any witnesses to come forward. They can be contacted on 020 8941 9011.

Did you know Inspector Gurr? Leave a tribute in the space below or email mwatts@london.newsquest.co.uk or call 0208 722 6359