Four more arrested on suspicion of murdering PC Andrew Harper who was 'dragged to his death' on burglary callout
FOUR people have been arrested on suspicion of murdering PC Andrew Harper, who was allegedly dragged to his death by a "burglary" getaway van.
The four are being questioned over the 28-year-old newlywed PC's death near Sulhamstead, Berkshire on August 15.
They have been arrested on suspicion of murder and theft and are in custody.
PC Harper, who had just married his sweetheart Lissie, was due to go on honeymoon the week after he was killed at a junction with the A4.
Three of those arrested – an 18-year-old man and two 17-year-old boys – are from the Reading area and were originally detained on August 16.
They were released on bail until September 12, then re-bailed until 16 November, with a fourth suspect, a 21-year-old male from Basingstoke, also now arrested.
Around 100 cops carried out a series of warrants to arrest the four males.
Another suspect, Jed Foster, 20, was last month charged with murdering PC Harper.
Foster will next year face a three-week trial after denying "any involvement in the horrific murder".
NEW EVIDENCE
Detective Superintendent Ailsa Kent, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “We are continuing to investigate the death of our colleague PC Andrew Harper, and today we have re-arrested three people in connection with this.
“In addition to these re-arrests, we have also arrested a further suspect, a 21-year-old man from Basingstoke.
“All four have been arrested on suspicion of murder and theft and are in our custody.
“This follows new evidence coming to light as the investigation has progressed in recent weeks.
“Members of the public might see an increased police presence at the locations of these warrants today. We appreciate the public’s patience and support while we progress these critical lines of enquiry.
'MY DARLING BOY'
"This is an ongoing, complex investigation, and we remain committed to achieving justice for PC Harper, his family, friends and colleagues."
He urged anyone with information about PC Harper's death to come forward.
“I would also like to reiterate our appeal for anyone who knows anything about this incident to come forward and talk to police, if you have not already done so
PC Harper sent Lissie a touching message when they married, which said: "Life is slippery. Here, take my hand."
Following her husband's death Lissie shared a heartbreaking tribute to him, calling him "my darling boy".
She wrote: "Anyone who was lucky enough to meet you, whether they knew you as Andrew, Andy, Uncle Mann, Harps or PC Harper … to everyone you are a hero.
"You had the best sense of humour and never took life too seriously. You treasured every moment and always had a smile on your face."
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