Woman continues search for answers following partner's death

"They assume that because Im young and vulnerable, Ill accept it and move on. But I wont."

Chloe Meffords partner, Tommy Hunter, tragically lost his life in December 2023 when he was struck by a car on Burton Road near Ashby, Leicestershire. His body was not discovered until more than 24 hours later in a roadside hedge.

Ms. Mefford has expressed deep concerns over the way Leicestershire Police handled the investigation into his death. She has now prompted the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) to review how her complaint was managed by the force.

The driver involved, Brandon Beesla, admitted to operating a vehicle in a dangerous condition and received a 12-month driving ban along with a fine. However, he was not directly charged with Mr. Hunters death.

Following the sentencing in March 2025, Ms. Mefford submitted complaints to both Leicestershire Police and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS), questioning the thoroughness of the investigation and the decision not to pursue manslaughter charges. She believes critical evidence was overlooked, and justice has yet to be served.

During the court hearing at Leicester Magistrates Court, it was revealed that Beesla had informed a friend early on 10 December that he had struck something with his car. The friend assisted in searching the area before Beesla returned home. The police were contacted later by the friend, after which Beesla reported the incident himself.

Beesla had prior convictions for driving under the influence, but his barrister argued that the police report showed he was not legally responsible for Mr. Hunters death. Magistrate Brian Cook noted that sentencing options were limited based on the specific charge.

Ms. Mefford criticized the police for insufficient questioning of Beesla and his friend, as well as for a slow initial response that left her partners friends to find his body. "If they had properly followed procedures from the start, we might have had the answers we needed instead of fighting so hard for them," she said.

The CPS Appeals and Review Unit concluded that the available evidence was insufficient to provide a realistic chance of conviction. The IOPC will now examine how Ms. Meffords initial complaint was handled by the police.

"I feel so angry and frustrated," she said. "We trust public services, but where are they when we need them most?"

Ms. Meffords campaign for justice has received support from her local MP, Samantha Niblett, who emphasized her commitment to helping Chloe pursue closure. "We will support her fully. She and her partner had a young son, and until every avenue has been explored, I will continue to stand by her," Niblett stated.

Ms. Mefford hopes that the review may uncover new evidence regarding the circumstances of Mr. Hunters death and encourage witnesses from that night to come forward. Leicestershire Police have confirmed that they will cooperate fully with the IOPC review.

Author: Caleb Jennings