Met Marksman Martyn Blake Trial Enters Crucial Third Day at Old Bailey
The dramatic trial of Met Police marksman Martyn Blake, accused of killing 24-year-old Chris Kaba, rolls on at the Old Bailey today (Friday, October 4). Blake, 40, is charged over the fatal headshot fired during a police stop in Streatham, South London, on September 5, 2022. Kaba was sat in the driver’s seat of an Audi when Blake pulled the trigger.
Prosecution Piles on Pressure
On Thursday, jurors got a gripping first look at Blake’s body-worn camera footage capturing the shooting’s brutal moments. Prosecutor Tom Little slammed Blake as “angry, frustrated, and annoyed” when he fired. He bombarded the court with claims that Blake’s statements after the shooting were “false” and “exaggerated”.
Blake’s Defence Hits Back
Defence lawyer Patrick Gibbs KC fired back in his opening, telling jurors to ask: “What did Mr Blake instantly believe?” and “Were his actions reasonable at the time?” Gibbs stressed the case hinges on Blake’s perception of imminent danger—not whether he was right or wrong.
Witnesses Paint Blake as Composed and Professional
Two prosecution witnesses took the stand Thursday. Tactical Firearms Commander HA62 described Blake as “calm and collected,” never seeing him “angry or frustrated”. Another, Tactical Firearms Advisor AC38, said stopping Kaba’s Audi was necessary, linked to gunfire reports in Brixton the night before.
Bodycam Footage Reveals Tense Standoff and Fatal Shot
The video showed Blake and officers moving to halt the suspected vehicle. Blake claimed Kaba tried to ram a police car and reverse into officers on foot, posing a grave threat. After failed attempts to flee, Blake fired a single shot through the windscreen — hitting Kaba in the head.
Blake insists he acted to protect lives, believing the risk was imminent and lethal force justified.
Prosecution Questions Use of Lethal Force
Tom Little challenged whether Blake’s shooting was really necessary. He suggested Blake exaggerated the threat to justify the fatal shot and argued the evidence didn’t back the claim of an immediate danger.
What Happens Next?
Jurors will hear more witness testimony today as the prosecution builds its case. The key questions remain whether Blake genuinely believed he faced an imminent threat and whether firing was reasonable.
Incident Background
Chris Kaba was shot dead after police followed his Audi. The vehicle was suspected to be connected to a Brixton shooting the previous evening. Reports say the police convoy included an unmarked car without lights or sirens.
Stay Tuned for Live Trial Updates
Public interest is sky-high as questions swirl around police tactics and the use of deadly force in high-stakes chases. Mr Justice Goss continues to preside over this tense and closely watched trial at the Old Bailey. Stay with us for live updates as the story unfolds.
