Tributes paid to 'brilliant' Leeds and Wakefield police sergeant after off-duty death at her home

West Yorkshire Police has announced that Sergeant Coleen Mellor died at her home in Horbury, Wakefield, last Thursday (January 15) while off duty. Her death is not being treated as suspicious.

Coleen joined West Yorkshire Police as a member of staff in 2007. She then became a police constable in 2019 and initially worked in Wakefield.

In March 2024, she moved to Leeds on being promoted to the rank of sergeant.

Tributes have been left by Coleen’s colleagues, with one writing: “I can’t believe I am reading this, we joined as specials together and she was always so lovely. Love to her family and those closest.”

Another wrote: “A brilliant sergeant and one who will be missed truly. My sincere condolences and respect for her family in this time.

“Coleen, you taught me resilience, courage, and faith in a job that tested every part of humanity. I love you, and I will miss you so much. May you lead others up there as you did here. RIP Sergeant 4629 Coleen Mellor. You will be missed dearly.”

Another commenter said they were “absolutely devastated” to hear the news, adding: “(I) only saw her two days before, rushing out of the office at Elland Road to assist her own cops in Leeds city centre.

“The true essence of a sgt, supporting her cops on the ground. God bless you.”

Assistant Chief Constable Sarah Jones said: “Coleen was well-respected and valued by all those who knew and worked with her.

“Her death has come as a great shock to everyone at West Yorkshire Police, and my thoughts remain with Coleen’s family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

A statement from the West Yorkshire Police Federation read: “Coleen will be remembered on the Wakefield and Leeds district teams as a popular colleague and she will be much missed.”

West Yorkshire Police have said that Coleen’s family and colleagues are being supported by specially trained officers, staff, and dedicated support services.