Police Officer Shot Dead at Croydon Custody Centre – Murder Probe Launched
A tragic murder investigation is underway after a London police officer was fatally shot in south London early Friday morning.
Officer Shot While Detaining Suspect
At around 2:15am on 25 September, a police officer was shot by a 23-year-old man at the Croydon Custody Centre on Windmill Lane. The suspect was in custody at the time.
Emergency crews and officers rushed to the scene. The wounded officer was treated on-site before being rushed to hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
Suspect Also Wounded and in Critical Condition
The man who fired the shots was detained immediately. He also suffered a gunshot wound and remains in critical condition in hospital.
Police confirmed no firearms were discharged by officers during the incident.
Tributes and Investigation Underway
Commissioner Cressida Dick said: “This is a truly shocking incident in which one of our colleagues has lost his life in the most tragic circumstances. My heart goes out to his family, direct colleagues and friends.
“We are supporting his family and have a dedicated team looking after officers and custody centre staff who witnessed the shooting.
“When a colleague dies in the line of duty, the shock and grief ripple through the Met and the wider community. Policing is a family, within London and nationally, and we will all deeply mourn our colleague.”
What Happens Next?
The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) is leading a murder investigation, working to uncover the full details of the shooting. Meanwhile, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been called in to lead an independent probe into the incident.
Officers are in the process of informing the officer’s family and providing specialist support during this tragic time.