Police chief who led search for Nicola Bulley dies suddenly at home aged 50

10 December 2023 , 21:42

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Assistant Chief Constable Peter Lawson has died (Image: Julian Hamilton/Daily Mirror)

The police officer who led the search for Nicola Bulley has died suddenly, aged 50.

Assistant Chief Constable Peter Lawson died at his home today, a passing Lancashire Police said was "medical-related" and has been referred to the coroner.

The officer was described as an "outstanding officer who served the communities of Lancashire with pride" by the constabulary. The "admired" officer started his career in Preston before serving all over the county in a variety of uniformed roles and, earlier this year, took a high profile role during the search for missing mother Nicola Bulley.

Mr Lawson appeared at press conferences during the search for Ms Bulley, 45, who disappeared after dropping her two daughters at school in St Michael's on Wyre, Lancashire, earlier this year.

Nicola Bulley vanished in Lancashire earlier this year (Lancashire Police / SWNS)

Her body was found in the River Wyre on February 19, about one mile from where she vanished while walking her dog in St Michael's on Wyre, Lancashire, on January 27. The force was criticised over its handling of the investigation and the disclosure of Ms Bulley's personal information.

Mum appeared 'completely normal' moments before vanishing while walking dog

Mr Lawson also gave evidence to the Manchester Arena terror attack inquiry. Lancashire's Chief Constable Chris Rowley said: "This is incredibly sad and tragic news. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Pete's family and friends at this difficult time."

"Pete's death will come as a shock to the entire force and the wider police family across the country. He was an outstanding officer who served the communities of Lancashire with pride. He was also highly respected and admired by all who knew him and worked with him. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and we will support them as much as we can. We will offer support to all our staff and those who worked with Pete, as we mourn his loss."

A report last month into the police investigation to find Ms Bulley warned officers they could have done more to protect evidence in the "golden hour" after she disappeared. The inquiry found that officers should have protected the area where she was last seen by cordoning off a bench where her phone was found, still connected to a work call.

Bradley Jolly