Met Cops Cleared Over Fatal Dagenham Shooting
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has backed Metropolitan Police officers who shot dead Giedrius Vasiljevas in Dagenham last week. Their investigation found the use of lethal force was necessary, proportionate, and reasonable.
Man Armed and Suicidal, Demanded Police Shoot Him
On November 23, 40-year-old Vasiljevas called 999 from his home. He confessed to owning two loaded guns and said he wanted police to end his life with a bullet. During the call, he claimed one weapon was an air rifle and the other a bolt gun but insisted officers should shoot him.
Armed officers arrived before 8pm and spent nearly an hour trying to persuade him to come outside. Vasiljevas briefly opened his door but then retreated. Seconds later, officers fired two shots to his abdomen. Paramedics tried to save him, but he was pronounced dead at 9.30pm.
Officer Fired After Man Aimed Gun, Says IOPC
The shooter claimed Vasiljevas pointed a gun directly at him and a fellow officer, putting their lives at immediate risk. The IOPC report states:
“Bodycam footage from the dark scene didn’t clearly show the firearm pointed, but Vasiljevas came to the door carrying what looked like a black handgun. Other officers confirmed they saw his arm raise towards the shooter. Evidence supported the officer’s belief that their life was at risk, making the use of lethal force absolutely necessary.”
The watchdog said no disciplinary action is needed against the officers involved.
Inquest Jury Upholds Police Version of Events
The inquest jury agreed Vasiljevas was holding and raising a gun at police when he was shot. IOPC Director Amanda Rowe said:
“Our thoughts are with Mr Vasiljevas’ family and all affected. Fatal police shootings are thankfully rare. When they happen, independent investigations must thoroughly examine the use of lethal force. The officers faced an extremely difficult situation. Mr Vasiljevas wanted to be shot and presented a real threat. Officers spent considerable time trying to negotiate a peaceful end — tragically, it wasn’t to be. The shooting officer believed their lives were at imminent risk, prompting the tragic but necessary use of force.”
