Blinded Raoul Moat PC David Rathband splits from wife
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The police officer blinded by gunman Raoul Moat says his wife has "called time" on their 20-year-long marriage.
Pc David Rathband made the announcement that he and his wife Kath were separating permanently on Twitter.
He Tweeted: "Sad to announce Mrs R has called time on our marriage separation permanent."
Well-wishers swiftly used the micro-blogging site to offer their support and express their sadness.
The officer later Tweeted: "Time to read a book and thanks for all the messages I am fine."
In September, just before the start of the inquest into Raoul Moat's death, Pc Rathband issued a statement saying he was to "live separately from his wife and family".
But that statement stressed the move was "purely for David's rehabilitation and so that he can ultimately continue to support his family".
It said the move had nothing to do with his recent arrest on suspicion of assault and stressed "David and Kath are very much still a married couple who love each other".
Pc Rathband was arrested in August after officers were called to an incident at his home in Cramlington, Northumberland.
He was understood to have been released shortly after police arrived.
The 43-year-old was shot twice on July 4 last year as he sat unarmed in his patrol car.
The officer, who joined the Northumbria force in 2000, lost vision in both eyes after being shot at close range during the manhunt for fugitive Moat, who shot and injured his former partner Sam Stobbart and killed her new boyfriend, Chris Brown.
Pc Rathband has been hailed for his charity work in the wake of his injuries.
He set up the Blue Lamp Foundation, an organisation offering help to injured members of the emergency services.
One follower Tweeted: "I hope you are both OK and that you will both be happy whatever you do".
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments