POLICE officers and staff across Hampshire are in mourning after the sudden death of one of their colleagues.

The family of PC Ray Hutchison say they are “devastated” at his unexpected death and have asked for privacy as they deal with their grief.

Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary Andy Marsh has also spoken of his sadness at the 34-year-old’s tragic death, saying that it has “deeply affected” officers in Hampshire.

Hampshire Constabulary says PC Hutchison, who was based in Fareham police station, died at his family home on Sunday, July 5.

The force confirmed that his death at the property in Emsworth is not being treated as suspicious.

PC Hutchison’s family have issued a brief statement through the force, with his wife Julieanne saying: “We are devastated at the death of Ray.

“This is a difficult time for the family and we would like some privacy as we come to terms with our loss.”

Reacting to the news, the Chief Constable of Hampshire Constabulary, Andy Marsh, said: “I am deeply saddened by Ray’s tragic death.

“The force is a family, and the loss of one our own deeply affects us all.

“I know that colleagues from across the two counties will join me in extending our deepest sympathies to Ray’s family, friends and shift members.”

John Apter, the chairman of Hampshire Police Federation, which represents the force’s rank and file officers, said his organisation was working with PC Hutchison’s family in the wake of the tragedy.

He said: “This is a sad time for the constabulary and the policing family.

“We are giving whatever support we can to Ray’s family and colleagues at this difficult time.”

West Sussex Coroners’ Office confirmed to the Daily Echo that an inquest into PC Hutchison’s death was opened on Wednesday, July 8.

It was adjourned on the same day with the inquest likely to take place later this year.