The families of Kurt Cochran, who was killed in the Westminster terror attack, and his wife Melissa, who was badly injured, found out they had been hurt when they recognised them in photographs posted online.
The couple, from Utah, were sightseeing on the last day of a trip celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary when Khalid Masood hit them with a 4x4 Hyundai Tucson on Westminster Bridge in London. He killed four people including Kurt Cochran and a police officer, Keith Palmer.
In a statement at New Scotland Yard on Monday, Dimmon Payne – Melissa’s father – said they had heard the attack was happening but did not know the couple were caught up in it until they saw pictures online.
He said: “That came to us shortly after pictures were recognised, our daughter-in-law recognised the pictures and called us immediately. We got online and realised that it was our loved ones and that’s how we found out.”
Asked about a photo that emerged of Melissa Cochran lying on the ground after the attack, her mother, Sandra, said: “Well I’m sure you will understand it was heart-wrenching to see this picture of her.”
It was revealed that Melissa had suffered a leg injury, a cut hand and broken rib in the attack.
Clint Payne said his sister, who is being treated in a London hospital, was getting better. He added: “This has been a humbling and difficult experience, but we have felt the love of so many people during these past several days.
“It’s been a tender experience for our family to be together with Melissa here. Her health is steadily improving and she has been strengthened by the presence of her family. She is so grateful for the outpouring of love and generosity.”
He added: “The most difficult part of all this is that Kurt is no longer with us and we miss him terribly. He was an amazing individual who loved everyone and tried to make the world a better place.
“He left a legacy of generosity and service that continues to inspire us, we are deeply saddened to lose him but grateful that the world is getting to know him and be inspired by him.
“I have no comment on the attacker or the reasons he may have done what he did. We’re just here to help support Melissa.”
