Police officer shot dead was a ‘well liked’ long serving Sergeant

A Metropolitan Police officer who was shot dead inside a custody centre in Croydon, South London was shot when opened the cell door.

The Met police believe that the 23-year old man who shot the police officer turned the gun on himself, and apparently shot himself.

The police officer who was shot later died in hospital, and it is believed he served for almost 30-years and was a custody sergeant who is married with two children.

Fellow colleagues described him as a “well-liked, a good copper, reliable.”

The Met police said that no police firearms were discharged.

According to Sky News the 23-year old suspect was stopped and searched by two special constables who found ammunition, it is believed.

The Metropolitan Police Commissioner Cressida Dick said, “Early indications are that the suspect shot himself. This has not yet, of course, been established as a fact. The man, I can tell you, remains in a critical condition in hospital.

“I do understand that there is considerable interest in the identity of my colleague but I cannot tell you yet his name, as we have not yet been able to inform all of his close family.

“The investigations will establish the full facts of what has happened and I would ask you as far as is possible to show restraint in speculation at this time.

“This terrible incident underlines again how police officers face danger every single day, 24/7, 365, in their work to protect our public.”

Dick added, “This is a truly shocking incident in which one of our colleagues has lost his life in the most tragic circumstances.

“My heart goes out to his family, direct colleagues and friends.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson released a statement, saying: “My deepest condolences go to the family, friends and colleagues of the police officer who was killed in Croydon last night.

“We owe a huge debt to those who risk their own lives to keep us safe.”

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.”

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said, “I am devastated by the news a Metropolitan Police officer has lost his life.

“I was informed of this tragic incident by the Commissioner this morning, and my heart goes out to the family of this brave officer, who has paid the ultimate price for helping to keep Londoners safe.”