Hero Cop Cleared After High-Speed Crash En Route to Terror Attack
On 2 February 2020, PC Paul Fisher raced to a terror attack where Sudesh Amman had stabbed two innocent bystanders. Told over the radio that lives were at serious risk and shots had been fired, Fisher led a two-car armed convoy at breakneck speed.
But under intense pressure, PC Fisher collided with three cars and a garden wall, injuring two other drivers before arriving on scene.
Not Guilty Verdict After Six-Day Trial
The trial at Southwark Crown Court ran for six days before the jury unanimously cleared PC Fisher of dangerous driving.
Commissioner Slams ‘Appalling’ Treatment of Officer
Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley said: “If an officer makes honest mistakes under the most immense pressure rushing to a terrorist incident, it’s a disgrace they face criminal trial nearly four years later. The treatment of this brave officer is appalling.”
“No other country would drag its top-trained cops to court after responding to such a serious attack while trying to save lives. PC Fisher’s driving errors were made under intense pressure protecting the public.”
“The right response would have been quick review, retraining, maybe warnings—not years of stress and legal wrangling. Officers are now scared to use their powers because of this fear.”
“The system must change or cops will fear it more than the criminals and terrorists they face daily. Officers expect accountability, but it must be fair, swift, and recognise split-second decisions. The current setup fails on all fronts.”
“I’m thankful the Home Office and Attorney General are reviewing this issue. We will support them fully.”
IOPC Investigation and Court Proceedings
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) launched an investigation immediately after the incident in February 2020. They also probed the second armed officer in the convoy, who continued to the scene despite the crash.
In May 2021, the IOPC referred the case to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). PC Fisher was charged with dangerous driving and appeared in court in August 2022. Charges against the other officer were dropped.
Both officers were suspended from driving duties during the investigation. With the trial over, police now liaise with the IOPC on next steps.
