Gunman Who Opened Fire on Armed Police During Armed Car-Jacking Jailed for Life
A man who blasted at armed police officers sent to arrest him for an armed car-jacking has been locked up for life. Derrick Fatunbi, 33, from Hackney, was sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court today to life imprisonment, with a minimum of 12 years behind bars.
Violent Armed Car-Jacking Sparks Police Raid
On the night of 19 March 2018, Fatunbi and his gang targeted a Range Rover on the Woodberry Down Estate near Finsbury Park. Armed with a shotgun and another firearm, they threatened the vehicle’s occupants before making off in both the Range Rover and their getaway car, a Nissan Primera.
The abandoned Nissan was traced back to Fatunbi’s family. Armed officers swiftly moved in on his Mandeville Street home just before 1am, following reports of firearms being used.
Gun Battle Erupts at Fatunbi’s Home
Despite police ordering him to surrender, Fatunbi appeared at a window and fired his shotgun. Officers returned fire during a tense standoff, and Fatunbi retreated inside. Confronted again on the stairs, he pointed the weapon at police before being shot multiple times.
Remarkably, no officers were hurt. Fatunbi was found collapsed on the landing with the shotgun beside him. Police found two more live cartridges at the scene, confirming he had fired both rounds prior.
Justice Served for Dangerous Offender
“The outcome could have been even more serious,” said Detective Constable Chris Williams. “Fatunbi threatened police trying to arrest him after committing a violent robbery. We are fortunate no one lost their life.”
Chief Superintendent Andy Walker praised the officers’ bravery: “Our armed officers showed remarkable tenacity to stop a violent criminal. London is safer with Fatunbi behind bars.”
Fatunbi was found guilty of attempted murder of a police officer, armed robbery, and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear. He also pleaded guilty to a previous supermarket robbery in Dalston and was sentenced accordingly.
This case sends a stark warning: those who threaten lives with guns will face the full force of the law.
