Posthumous bravery award for officer who died protecting colleagues
An officer who died while “bravely and selflessly” protecting his colleagues has been honoured at a special ceremony.
Forty years after his death, Detective Sergeant William Ross Hunt, known as Ross, was recognised with a Chief Constable’s Bravery Award, awarded posthumously, at Police Scotland’s headquarters in Tulliallan.
Det Sgt Hunt, who was a “long-serving and hugely respected” member of Strathclyde Police, died after responding to a report of a serious assault at a pub in Larkhall on June 4, 1983.
Police Scotland said that after establishing the identity of the suspect, Det Sgt Hunt opted to remain on-shift to lead a team of officers in arresting the individual.
“They attended at his home address to find the suspect and his associates returning and when attempts were made to apprehend the group, members of the suspect’s family armed themselves with various weapons and began attacking the officers,” the force said.
“Det Sgt Hunt encouraged the other detectives to get back to their vehicles, while trying to shield them from the attack. He received numerous serious injuries and tragically died as a result.
“His courageous actions, however, ensured that the other officers survived the attack and those responsible were subsequently charged and convicted of his murder.”
Lanarkshire Police Historical Society began a campaign to have Det Sgt Hunt’s “selfless actions” recognised nationally.
The matter was discussed in the Scottish Parliament and Chief Constable Sir Iain Livingstone QPM offered the highest honour he can give, a Chief Constable’s Bravery Award.
Speaking after presenting the award to Det Sgt Hunt’s family, including his two sons, Sir Iain said: “Ross’s actions saved the lives of his fellow officers. His selfless courage and public service reflect all that is good in Scottish policing.
“It was a privilege to meet Ross’s family, and, together, recognise his outstanding bravery.”