Detective Constable John Coker, 53, dies in hospital from coronavirus

A British Transport Police (BTP) officer has died after contracting Covid-19.

Detective Constable John Coker, 53, died last night after being taken ill on March 22, the BTP has confirmed.

After his health did not improve he was admitted to hospital and transferred to an intensive care unit to receive critical treatment.

Mr Coker had worked for the BTP for more than 10 years, during which time he became Detective Constable at Euston’s criminal investigation department (CID).

Paying tribute to Mr Coker, BTP Chief Constable Paul Crowther said: ‘My thoughts are with John’s family, for whom the last three weeks have been incredibly difficult and who will be struggling to deal with this most distressing outcome.

‘Local colleagues have been in constant contact with John’s wife and will pass on the heartfelt condolences of us all.

‘BTP will continue that support over the coming days, weeks and months.

‘Understandably this is a very difficult time for John’s wife and family and they have asked for privacy.

‘My thoughts are also with the many officers and staff who worked alongside John, as we each come to terms with this truly awful news.

‘John has been part of the BTP family for over a decade and became a Detective Constable within the CID department at Euston where he was much loved and respected by all those he worked with.

‘His colleagues remember a man who was charismatic, kind and thoughtful and took everything in his stride. He will be greatly missed by all in the force.’

Mr Coker is survived by his wife and their three children.