On eve of M9 tragedy police extend sympathy

John was killed outright in the smash, but his partner, a mum of two, was trapped in the wreck for three days before finally being found badly injured but alive.

Tragically, she lost her fight for life in hospital five days later.

Since the accident a major probe into the circumstances surrounding the deaths has been underway by the Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC), who recently sent a supplementary report to the Lord Advocate, and Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary for Scotland (HMICS) has looked into call handling procedures.

Today Police Scotland Assistant Chief Constable Kate Thomson said: “On behalf of my colleagues in Police Scotland I wish to extend my sympathies to the families and friends of Lamara Bell and John Yuill.

“The events of last July not only continue to effect them, but also a great number of people in the communities we serve and within the force itself.

“Please be assured that we will continue to offer the appropriate advice and support to those who require it.

“Following last year’s tragic events a review by HMICS was carried out, following which we welcomed their report, findings and recommendations.

“I would wish to reassure everyone that extensive work has been undertaken to address the recommendations made which are designed to improve our contact, command and control arrangements.

“The Police and Investigations Review Commissioner has also recently passed her report to the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscals Service and we are currently awaiting the decision of the Lord Advocate as to the next steps.”