WINNER - PEOPLE'S BOOK PRIZE 2017
This updated edition brings forth additional insights and material regarding one of the most tragic events in British history, the Hillsborough disaster of 1989.
Detective Inspector Richard Venables (QPM, rtd.) stands as a remarkable figure in the field of Disaster Victim Identification (DVI). Over his illustrious career, he has facilitated the identification of thousands of lives lost across the globe, piecing together fragments from numerous disasters, including tsunamis and transportation tragedies. This essential work has allowed families to recover their loved ones with a sense of closure and dignity, often amidst the darkest of circumstances.
In his memoir, A Life in Death, Richard not only recounts his professional journey but also unveils the personal toll that constant exposure to death had on him. His profound experiences were particularly shaped during his tenure as a uniformed sergeant at the catastrophic Hillsborough disaster, which serves as a pivotal element of his life story. Richard’s expertise was further tested during his confrontations with the aftermath of the 2004 Asian Tsunami, an event that resulted in the tragic loss of an estimated 230,000 lives—marking it as the deadliest disaster in human history.
Critically acclaimed, A Life in Death has received praise from fellow professionals, particularly from DR N D Chapman DL, the retired Coroner of Nottingham and President of the British Association of Human Identification, who remarked, "It is a sincere reflection of the fate that can befall some unfortunate people but also illustrates how those dealing with disasters can make such a tremendous difference by the way their loved ones are cared and treated with respect and dignity." This sentiment encapsulates the core message of Richard's work.
Upon retiring from the police force in 2006, Richard Venables was honored with the Queen’s Police Medal in recognition of his distinguished service. His story is one of profound impact, emphasizing the importance of humanity and professionalism in disaster response.
