Heroic Surrey cop PC Marissa Barwell and her police dog Ella have been nominated for the 2025 National Police Bravery Awards after facing down a knife-wielding suspect in a busy shopping parade.
Fearless Face-Off With Armed Man
On 18 October 2024, PC Barwell and her trusty canine partner PD Ella were first on the scene after calls flooded in about a man threatening shoppers — including kids — with a large knife.
The suspect, described as heavily built and aggressive, brandished the weapon near an alleyway, causing panic. Without a second thought, PC Barwell jumped out of her patrol car and placed herself between the danger and the public.
Despite the life-threatening risk, she kept calm and told the man to drop the knife. When he raised it at her, she stood firm, buying crucial time until armed backup arrived to safely arrest the suspect. Miraculously, no one was hurt.
High Praise From Police Chiefs
Darren Pemble, Chair of Surrey Police Federation, hailed the duo’s bravery:
“Policing is a job like no other. What PC Barwell and PD Ella did was brave beyond words. They responded immediately, placed themselves in danger, and prevented what could have been a fatal incident.”
Chief Constable Tim De Meyer added:
“PC Barwell’s courage, backed by PD Ella, stopped the situation escalating. Her nomination is richly deserved and shows the selflessness that defines our officers.”
National Police Bravery Awards Nomination
The National Police Bravery Awards, organised by the Police Federation of England and Wales, honour officers who risk life and limb protecting the public.
PC Barwell and PD Ella’s nomination places them among the UK’s bravest, with the awards ceremony set for later this year.
