A Merseyside Police officer has been charged in connection with the death of 22-year-old Rachael Louise Moore, who was struck by a marked police car on Christmas Eve 2022. The incident occurred while Moore was crossing the road in Liverpool. PC Scott Thompson, 32, has been accused of causing Moore's death by careless driving. He appeared at Manchester Magistrates' Court on November 24, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge. Thompson has been released on unconditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on January 6, 2024. Following the tragic incident, Moore's family released a heartfelt tribute, describing her as a "cherished daughter" and a "caring friend". They stated, "Rachael Louise Moore, aged 22, cherished daughter of Alison and Ian, sister to Ben and much loved granddaughter of Nana Sue. Partner to Jack and caring friend to many. She will be greatly missed by all those whose lives she touched." Patrice Hayes, Moore's dissertation tutor at Liverpool Hope University, expressed the community's shock and sadness over her death. She remarked, "Rachael was one of those students who was always ready with a sweet, shy smile and she was a brilliant writer. Her ready kindness and calm manner belied her fierce passion for social justice." Many staff and former students attended a memorial held for Moore, highlighting her lasting impact on those around her. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed that their investigation was initiated following a mandatory referral from the police force. An IOPC spokesman stated, "Our independent investigation followed a mandatory referral from the force after a police vehicle PC Thompson was driving was involved in a fatal collision in the Kensington area of Liverpool on December 24, 2022. The officer was responding to an unrelated emergency call when the collision occurred, resulting in the tragic death of Rachael Moore, who was pronounced dead at the scene." The IOPC has worked closely with the Crown Prosecution Service throughout the investigation, which led to the charge against PC Thompson being authorised last month.