Plymouth police officer killed in fall from tree
A FORMER Plymouth police officer died after falling from a tree while he was cutting branches.
It is thought that Geoff Symes, who lived in St Austell, Cornwall, had hit the ground headfirst suffering “traumatic” injuries, according to police inspector Stuart Gibbons.
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The retired police officer was airlifted by RAF helicopter to Derriford Hospital but was pronounced dead soon after arrival.
The tragedy happened on Sunday on Long Park Way, Bethel, at about 12.30pm.
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Mr Symes, in his 50s, retired from the Devon and Cornwall force in 2007 after a 33-year career.
He was just a month shy of his 16th birthday when he joined the police cadets, serving for two years in the role in Plymouth before becoming a senior cadet in Camborne. He returned to Plymouth later as a police officer.
His bravery shone throughout his career and he earned a commendation for risking his own life to save a man threatening to throw himself off a giant crane being used to build the Theatre Royal in the city.
He and two other officers climbed the crane to reach the troubled man, then escorted and carried him down to the ground.
Mr Gibbons said an investigation would be carried out, adding: “It appears to have been a very tragic accident.”
Comments
by LUCKY
Tuesday, January 15 2013, 2:45PM
“The point is to recognise his contribution to society, but then I don't see how this is news. Is it really necessary for the public to be made aware of every retired police officer's contribution, after all it's their job. I thought that's what an obituary is for??”
by BS_Hater
Thursday, January 10 2013, 10:58AM
“What has the fact he was a Police Officer got to do with anything??”
by jeffro11
Wednesday, January 09 2013, 12:49PM
“While I send sympathy to this mans family and friends...on his tragic accident...I have to take to task again this appalling newspaper and its sensationalist seeking reporters...
This gentleman was a RETIRED police officer who retired in 2007 and lived in St Austell
Get your act together Herald..or close..you really wouldnt be missed”