Emotional tributes have been paid to the police officer who was tragically shot dead at Croydon Custody Centre.
The officer died shortly after being shot by a male suspect who was being detained at the custody centre, in Windmill Lane, at 2.15am on Friday (September 25).
A 23-year-old man was detained by officers at the scene. He was also taken to hospital with a gunshot wound and remains in a critical condition.
The Metropolitan Police have launched a murder investigation and are investigating the officer’s death.
At this stage, it is understood by UNN that the suspect may be of Sri Lankan origin.
Croydon MPS said on Twitter: “Today we lost an honorable, brave and dedicated family member. Our hearts are with the officer’s immediate family at this time following this devastating loss.”
Ken Marsh, chairman of the Metropolitan Police Federation, called the officer’s death ‘devastating news’.
He said: “The murder of a colleague on duty is utterly devastating news. Officers across London are in shock and sick to their stomachs at the nature of his death.
“All our thoughts – and that of all our members – are with his family, friends and close colleagues at this time. We and all members of the police family across the country are all utterly heartbroken at this news.
“Officers put themselves in danger every day to protect the public. Sadly, on very rare occasions officers make the ultimate sacrifice whilst fulfilling their role. When that happens we will ensure their bravery and sacrifice is never forgotten.
“Colleagues involved in the incident will have our full support for as long as is needed.”
Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said: “This morning we learnt of the shocking death of a much-loved colleague, a long-serving sergeant in the Metropolitan Police who was working last night in our Croydon custody suite.
“I have visited and spoken to our officer’s partner together with other colleagues. We are giving her the best support we can.”
She added: “Early indications are that the suspect shot himself. This has not yet been established as fact. The man remains in a critical condition in hospital.
“I understand that there is considerable interest in the identity of the officer but we have not yet been able to inform all of his close family.”
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: “I am deeply shocked and saddened to learn that a Metropolitan Police Officer has been shot and killed in the line of duty.
“My thoughts today are with his family, friends and policing colleagues in London and across the country.
“This morning I spoke to Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick to express my condolences and to offer whatever support is needed as this tragic event is investigated.
“This is a sad day for our country and another terrible reminder of how our police officers put themselves in danger each and every day to keep the rest of us safe.”
Members of the public have been turning up outside the station all day to hand over flowers at the centre and pay their respects.
The deceased officer was described as “an inspiration” by a friend who knew him from playing rugby together.
Everyone at UNN would like to send our deepest sympathies to the family and friend of this much-loved Police Sargent.
Editor-in-Chief | Carl D. Pearson has been involved in British politics and media from an early age, with the key knowledge of what it takes to run a news organisation for the 21st century. Mr Pearson, as Editor-in-chief, is responsible for supervising the daily tasks of publishing media and content to UNN’s website and various platforms.
[sibwp_form id=4]
