A suspected armed robber has died in hospital following a struggle during an attempted robbery at a shop in Elm Park.
The Metropolitan Police were called to a shop on St Nicholas Avenue at 6:49am on December 30, after reports that a 52-year-old man had threatened staff with a knife.
The suspect was detained by shop staff with the assistance of a member of the public before police arrived. During the struggle, the man sustained injuries, and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service were called to the scene.
The man, who was described as being in critical condition, was taken to the hospital, where he was treated. Despite efforts to save him, he died on January 1.
Investigation Underway
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the man’s next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. A “special” post-mortem examination will be conducted in the coming days to determine the exact cause of death.
Police Statement
A spokesperson for the Met said:
“Officers are continuing their enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding this incident. At this stage, there is no indication of any further suspects involved.”
Appeal for Witnesses
The police have urged anyone with information or who may have been in the area at the time to contact them on 101, quoting CAD 1296/30DEC, or to reach out anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
This tragic incident has left the community shaken, with many expressing gratitude to those who intervened during the robbery. Further updates will follow as the investigation progresses.