In the wake of a heartbreaking loss, a remarkable police officer’s memory lives on as over $100,000 is collected to honor his selfless act. Sergeant Graham Saville, a dedicated member of Nottinghamshire Police, lost his life while bravely attempting to save a man on railway tracks near the Bulpit Lane level crossing in Balderton, a residential area close to Newark-on-Trent in Nottinghamshire, UK. Tragically, he was struck by a train last Thursday.
Despite valiant rescue efforts, Sgt. Saville, aged 46, succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, surrounded by his grieving family. The incident unfolded shortly before 7:00 PM on Thursday when Nottinghamshire Police received a call concerning a man’s safety. It was during the fulfillment of his duty that Sgt. Saville met his untimely end, struck by a train on the East Coast Mainline.
In the wake of this tragedy, a Just Giving page was established to provide support to Sgt. Saville’s family as they navigate their profound grief. The heartfelt message on the fundraising page reads: “We reach out to the community to aid the immediate family of our fallen police officer, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty while saving another life. This exemplifies the highest form of policing courage.”
Announcement | Death of Sergeant Graham Saville
It is with great sadness that Nottinghamshire Police confirms the death of a serving officer in the line of duty.https://t.co/rLm7fvBUS5
— Nottinghamshire Police (@nottspolice) August 29, 2023
“This fund aims to offer assistance across various aspects of their lives as they come to terms with this heart-wrenching loss. In time, we hope it will aid their healing and provide some solace. Please join us in supporting this brave and selfless officer’s family. Every contribution counts.” As of now, the fundraiser has garnered just over £90,000 ($113,900) in donations, inching toward its £100,000 ($126,500) goal.
Following this tragedy, Chief Constable Kate Meynell conveyed the deep sorrow felt by the entire UK police force, saying, “Today is a day of mourning for our police family. Graham wasn’t just a respected colleague; he was a beloved one. His loss in the line of duty is a devastating blow to us all.”
“Our hearts go out to his family, and we are committed to providing unwavering support during this unimaginably painful time. Graham’s passing has left a void that words cannot fill, affecting all who held him in high esteem,” she expressed to BBC News.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also paid tribute to Sgt. Saville, sharing on social media: “I’m saddened by the loss of Sergeant Saville. His sacrifice in the line of duty is a testament to his bravery and a stark reminder of the daily sacrifices made by our police to keep us safe. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire Nottinghamshire Police Force.”
As a mark of respect, flags across the force will be flown at half-mast. Sgt. Saville’s family has requested privacy during this challenging period. The investigation into the incident, led by the British Transport Police, is ongoing. Our thoughts continue to be with Sgt. Saville’s loved ones during this trying time.