Pictured: ‘Dedicated’ police motorcycle rider killed whereas responding to 999 name on busy twin carriageway

A police motorbike rider killed in a horror crash on the A12 while racing to a 999 call has been named as PC Matthew ‘Mat’ Parker.

The 36-year-old officer died at around 12.25pm on Wednesday, November 19, after his police motorcycle collided with another vehicle on the busy dual carriageway near Ingatestone. 

The road was shut for hours as specialist investigators examined the scene.

PC Parker, a highly respected member of the Chigwell Roads Policing Unit, had been responding to an emergency at the time of the crash.

His death has prompted an outpouring of grief from family, colleagues and the wider policing community, with Essex Police chiefs describing him as a ‘dedicated professional who died doing his job’.

Mat, who joined Essex Police in 2010, spent his entire career serving West Essex, working on the Loughton Local Policing Team before moving to roads policing. 

Away from work, he was known for his love of motorbikes and was the proud owner of a Harley Davidson.

He leaves behind his wife, daughters, parents, brother, sisters, nieces and nephews.

In a deeply emotional tribute, his family said: ‘Mat lived a life defined by dedication and integrity. 

The 36-year-old officer died at around 12.25pm on Wednesday, November 19, after his police motorcycle collided with another vehicle on the busy dual carriageway near Ingatestone

The road was shut for hours as specialist investigators examined the scene

‘Beyond his service as a proud Essex Police officer, he was a man of strong values and a generous heart. He found joy and freedom on his motorcycle, and his passion for riding reflected his love of adventure and camaraderie.’

They added that he was a proud member of the Iron Order Motorcycle Club: ‘Mat will be remembered not only for his courage and commitment but for the warmth he brought to those closest to him.

‘His family and friends will forever cherish his laughter, his honesty, and the strength of his character. His spirit will live on in the memories and love he gave so freely. He will remain forever in their hearts.’

Chief Supt Simon Anslow said the force was ‘absolutely devastated’ by the loss of a ‘proud and dedicated colleague’.

‘Mat was brave, he was courageous, and we are all grateful to him for his service,’ he said. ‘We stand united in grief with his heartbroken family and continue to support them through this unimaginably difficult time.’

The flag at half mast in honour of Mat, who joined Essex Police in 2010, spent his entire career serving West Essex

Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington also paid tribute, saying: ‘He was a dedicated professional who died doing his job – protecting and serving the people of Essex. I will always be grateful for his service.’ 

He urged the public not to speculate about the collision while investigators carry out their work.

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, added: ‘This is a tragic, terrible incident in which the life of a valued and respected officer has been lost. We pay tribute to this officer who was carrying out his duties keeping Essex people safe and secure.’

Essex Police said the investigation into the fatal collision is ongoing.