An off-duty police officer has been charged with death by dangerous driving following a collision that claimed the life of a 16-year-old boy in Bramcote, Nottinghamshire. Daniel Cartwright, 31, of Kettering, Northamptonshire, a serving officer with Bedfordshire Police, is expected to appear at Nottingham Magistrates' Court on August 6.
Fatal collision on Chilwell Lane
The incident occurred on September 28 last year at approximately 10:10am on Chilwell Lane in Bramcote. Ryley Hutson, 16, was riding an electric bike when it collided with two other cars. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Nottinghamshire Police confirmed that specially-trained officers have been supporting Ryley's family since the tragedy.
Charges brought nearly 10 months later
Almost 10 months after the crash, the force announced that Daniel Cartwright has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving. Detective Inspector Jamie Moore of Nottinghamshire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit stated: "This was a tragic incident which has had a devastating impact on Ryley's family. They have been updated about this important step in our investigation, and our thoughts remain with them."
Tributes to a 'cheeky soul'
In an online fundraiser created on GoFundMe shortly after the crash, Ryley's aunt described him as "full of life, laughter, and love." She wrote: "Our world has been shattered by the heart-breaking loss of 16-year-old Ryley, who tragically passed away in a fatal motorcycle accident. Ryley was full of life, laughter, and love - a cheeky soul who left a lasting mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him."
Legal proceedings ahead
Cartwright, who was off-duty at the time of the crash, is due to appear before Nottingham Magistrates' Court on August 6. The case has drawn attention due to his status as a police officer, though the force has not commented further on the circumstances of the incident. The investigation remains ongoing.
