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

A ‘much loved and respected’ married British Transport Police officer with three children died last night after contracting coronavirus.

Detective Constable John Coker, 53, was admitted to hospital after being taken ill on March 22 and transferred to an intensive care unit to receive critical treatment.

Mr Coker had worked for the BTP for more than ten years and had been Detective Constable at London Euston station’s criminal investigation department.

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. A spokesman for the British Transport Police Federation said his death was ‘devastating news’.

They added: ‘John’s loss will be felt throughout the force. We are supporting his family. Thank you for your kind words, we will ensure they know how much John will be missed.’