Hundreds of police officers and military veterans gathered to remember PC Tom Clough, a 38-year-old officer who died in the line of duty after a devastating crash on the A66.

PC Tom Clough spent much of his adult life serving others. A former British Army soldier and experienced police officer, he built a career around protecting the public — a commitment that ultimately cost him his life.

On August 22, 2026, Clough and fellow Cleveland Police officer PC Matthew Blades were traveling in a marked armed response vehicle near South Bank, Middlesbrough, when their vehicle was struck by a Volkswagen Passat traveling the wrong way along the A66.

Both officers died in the collision. Five occupants of the Passat were also killed, bringing the total number of deaths to seven. The circumstances surrounding the crash remain subject to investigation.

A Life Built Around Service
Before joining Cleveland Police, Clough had already dedicated years to public service.

He served in the British Army from 2006 to 2012 as a lance corporal with the Royal Logistic Corps, including service in Afghanistan. He later joined the Civil Nuclear Constabulary in 2013, where he worked as an Authorised Firearms Officer at Sellafield.

During his time with the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, Clough also served as a temporary sergeant and trained as a Dynamic Search officer, an Interdiction Team member, a Police Medic and an Operational Firearms Commander.

In 2018, he joined British Transport Police, spending three and a half years with the force before moving to Cleveland Police in 2022.

Remembered for More Than His Uniform
Those who worked alongside Clough described him as highly professional, but they also remembered the personality behind the uniform.

Former colleagues at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary described him as dedicated, skilled and committed, while also recalling his humor, warmth and ability to lift the spirits of those around him.

British Transport Police similarly remembered him as a brilliant officer who was committed to helping others and known for the kindness and humor he brought to the workplace.

For the people who knew him, Tom Clough was not simply a police officer. He was a colleague, friend, veteran and member of a wider policing family.

A Final Farewell
On September 10, hundreds of police officers and Army veterans gathered at Kirkleatham Walled Gardens in Redcar for Clough’s funeral.

Officers from across the country lined the route as the hearse passed. Standard bearers from police forces around the UK lowered their flags in tribute to the fallen officer.

His death has been felt across several communities and organizations where he served throughout his career.

Tom Clough had spent years running toward difficult situations while others were trying to get away from them. His final journey home was marked by the presence of the very people who had shared that responsibility with him.

His colleagues will remember him not only for the uniform he wore, but for the years he devoted to protecting others — and for the warmth and humor that made him so deeply respected.

Course: NY Post