Cop Who Shot Chris Kaba Insists: “I Acted to Save Lives”
Martyn Blake, the police officer charged with murdering Chris Kaba in south London last year, tells a gripping story in court. He insists his split-second decision to shoot was “lawful, proportionate, and necessary” — believing Kaba’s Audi was a deadly weapon threatening his colleagues.
Chaos on Streatham Streets
The drama unfolded in Streatham after police tracked Kaba’s car, linked to gunshot reports in Brixton the night before. Blake recalls the armed officers shouting amid “total chaos” as Kaba tried to flee. The Audi smashed into a police car and ignored warnings to stop.
“There was a lot of noise and shouting of armed police,” Blake told the court. “I was filled with dread as Kaba continued to try to escape. I thought my colleagues’ lives were in immediate danger.”
“No Other Option” but to Shoot
Blake, 40, who’s a trained firearms officer, tried to stop Kaba by pointing a laser sight at him — but it failed. With officers dangerously close to the car, Blake fired a single shot through the Audi’s windscreen.
“In that split second, the only thing appropriate to do was to incapacitate the driver,” Blake said. “I fired to save the lives of my colleagues.”
He told the jury he believed it was the only legal choice and said he deeply sympathises with Kaba’s grieving family. “I am truly sorry for their enormous distress. It’s right they want answers.”
Trial Continues at Old Bailey
The courtroom drama is underway at the Old Bailey as the jury weighs whether Blake’s actions were justified. The decision will have huge implications for policing and street safety in London — and the family of Chris Kaba await justice.
