Gunman Who Fired at Armed Police Cops Locked Up for Life
A dangerous crook who blasted at firearms officers sent to nab him over an armed car-jacking has been jailed for life. Derrick Fatunbi, 33, of Mandeville Street, Hackney, was sentenced at Isleworth Crown Court to a minimum of 12 years behind bars for attempted murder and robbery.
Violent Car-Jacking Sparks Armed Police Raid
On the night of 19 March 2018, Fatunbi joined a gang that pulled off a terrifying armed car-jacking in Finsbury Park, North London. The group targeted a Range Rover on the Woodberry Down Estate, brandishing a shotgun and another firearm.
- They arrived in a Nissan Primera before threatening the car’s occupants with lethal weapons.
- The gang swiftly fled the scene in both vehicles.
- The abandoned Nissan was traced back to Fatunbi’s family, leading police straight to his door.
Gunfight Erupts as Armed Police Move in
Armed officers rocked up just before 1am to arrest Fatunbi. Despite orders to surrender, the thug appeared at a window wielding a shotgun and opened fire. Police returned fire, and the shootout spilled into the stairway where Fatunbi was shot multiple times.
A shotgun and live rounds were recovered at the scene. Remarkably, no officers were hurt during the dramatic standoff.
Police Praise Officers’ Bravery As London Tops Up Safety
Detective Constable Chris Williams said: “It’s hugely fortunate no one lost their lives. We’re committed to taking dangerous criminals like Fatunbi off the streets.”
Chief Superintendent Andy Walker added: “Our armed officers showed immense bravery. I’m pleased the judge praised their courage. London is safer now Fatunbi is behind bars.”
Alongside the life sentence for attempted murder and armed robbery, Fatunbi admitted an unrelated Dalston supermarket robbery from 2019.
