Widow's tribute to biker Pc killed in hit and run
The widow of an off-duty policeman who died after a hit-and-run crash on his way home from work has spoken today of her devastation.
Pc Chris Dent, 36, was riding home on his motorbike last Wednesday when he was hit by a silver Volkswagen saloon in Perivale, west London. Paramedics pronounced him dead at the scene.
The driver of the car fled on foot leaving two women passengers, who were arrested, questioned and later bailed.
Police subsequently arrested three men at an address in Barnet on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. All three have been released on bail.
Pc Dent's wife Niki said: "Chris was a wonderful husband and a great father to Nathan, Kian and Ella.
"I know how much he enjoyed his job and how respected he was by colleagues and friends alike.
"His death has left us all completely devastated and heartbroken. Words cannot begin to express the loss and emptiness we feel."
Pc Dent had served in the Army in the Royal Artillery and in Thames Valley Police before joining the traffic police five years ago.
Colleagues have also spoken of their admiration for Pc Dent. Chief Superintendent David Snelling said: "Chris was a very conscientious, hard-working officer who always had a smile on his face. He was very popular and was in his dream role as a traffic officer."