The victim of a shooting in New Addington earlier this week has been identified as Julius Cools, the father of Jermaine Cools, a 14-year-old tragically killed in a knife crime incident in Croydon in November 2021.
Shooting Incident
Emergency services responded to reports of a shooting on Godric Crescent, near King Henry’s Drive, at approximately 11:40pm on Monday, December 23. Julius Cools, 50, was rushed to hospital by the London Ambulance Service as a priority. His injuries were assessed as non-life threatening.
Campaigner Against Knife Crime
Cools, a well-known figure in the South Norwood community, has been a prominent campaigner against gang violence and knife crime since the devastating loss of his son. Jermaine Cools was the youngest victim of knife crime in London in 2021, a tragedy that shook the community.
Julius Cools owns a Caribbean restaurant in South Norwood, where he gained national attention for bravely disarming a knife-wielding thief who attempted to attack a young customer. Footage of his actions went viral, earning widespread praise.
Current Condition
Reliable sources report that Cools has since been discharged from the hospital and was able to spend Christmas at home with family and friends, despite the traumatic incident earlier in the week.
Police Investigation
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that an investigation is underway but noted that no arrests have been made. Specialist officers are leading the enquiries, and the police have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.
A Met spokesperson stated:
An investigation is underway… There has been no arrest, and enquiries continue by specialist officers.
Community Reaction
The shooting has raised concerns within the community, which is still grappling with the broader issues of violence that claimed the life of Jermaine Cools three years ago. Local leaders and residents have expressed their support for the family during this difficult time.
The Metropolitan Police has not released further updates, citing the closure of the Scotland Yard press office over the Christmas period.
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact the police or report anonymously to Crimestoppers.
