Colleagues and partner agencies have paid tribute to an Essex officer killed in a traffic collision.

Colleagues across Essex Police and child protection leads have paid tribute to a PC who was killed in a road traffic accident.

The Chief Constable of Essex has led the tributes to children and young persons officer PC Tris Baker, 41, who died after his car collided with a lorry.

CC Harrington led the messages of condolence to his family.

The officer died in a collision between a car and a lorry on the A1060 in Roxwell on the afternoon of 23 September.

Tragically, he died at the scene.

A lorry driver has been interviewed regarding his involvement in the collision.

He was based at Brentwood and had spent nearly 18 years as an officer.

CC Harrington said: “The loss of Tris to the Essex Police family is great, but this will not compare to the loss of those who loved him most dearly.

“I am also sending my personal thoughts and prayers to all those who held Tris dear at this tragic time. My thoughts and thanks are also with the officers who responded to the incident and who have been helping and supporting with the response. I know they care deeply.”

Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “This is absolutely tragic and so very sad.“

The force’s Fed added: “Our thoughts remain with the family, friends and colleagues.”

Colleagues across the force and people with partner agencies who had worked with him took to social media to share their messages of support for family and friends.

Supt Michelle Davies said: “A fabulous Children and Young Persons Officer, volunteer Police Cadet Leader and police officer - there is a huge hole left.”

Another added: “Worked alongside Tris in his job as CYP officer and always found him to be really compassionate, professional and helpful. Thoughts to his loved ones and colleagues.”

In a statement, Tris’ partner Faye Matthams said: “Tris was the kindest, most giving and thoughtful man you could ever hope to know,

“He put everyone else’s needs before his own and worked so very hard not only in his day job but also to provide a safe and loving home for myself and the three children,” she added.

“Almost 18 years’ service proved this, along with his dedication to being a volunteer police cadet leader, a role he took much pride in. He was the perfect son, partner, father, brother and friend who will be sorely missed by us all.”