A hero police officer who wrestled a knife-wielding attacker to the ground at a petrol station in Lee High Road, Lewisham, has been praised for his bravery and quick thinking.
PC Morgan Younger, 23, was on routine patrol on Saturday, January 25, when he stopped at a petrol station to grab a drink. At the entrance, he witnessed a man attacking another individual with a large knife. Without hesitation, PC Younger sprang into action, tackling the suspect and disarming him single-handedly while calling for backup.
The attacker, identified as Fitzgerald Carty, 66, was attempting to stab another man when PC Younger intervened. A struggle ensued, but the officer managed to restrain Carty for five minutes until additional officers arrived.
Officer’s Courage Praised
The victim, a man in his 40s, escaped the attack without injuries thanks to PC Younger’s decisive response. Chief Superintendent Trevor Lawry, in charge of policing in Lewisham, hailed the officer’s exceptional bravery, stating:
A dangerous man is now behind bars thanks to the outstanding work of PC Younger.
He saw a very violent crime in progress and didn’t hesitate to race in and wrestle the knifeman to the ground. I have no doubt that without his intervention, the victim would have been seriously injured.”
The officer has since been nominated for a commendation for his courage and professionalism.
Attacker Sentenced to 30 Months in Jail
Carty, of Dacre Park, Lewisham, was arrested the following day (January 26) and later charged with possession of a knife and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
The court heard that the attack stemmed from a previous dispute between Carty and the victim, whom he knew personally.
Carty pleaded guilty to both offences at Woolwich Crown Court on February 24 and was sentenced to 30 months in prison for attempted grievous bodily harm with intent, along with an additional six-month concurrent sentence for possessing a knife.
PC Younger: “I Acted Instinctively”
Speaking after the incident, PC Younger said:
“I had just stopped to get a drink before an appointment when I saw the commotion.”
“I acted instinctively and without question, I just needed to stop a clearly dangerous man with a knife. My training kicked in, and I did everything I could.”
I live and breathe policing – I have a strong desire to help those in need and keep people safe.
Appeal Against Knife Crime
Authorities have once again warned against the dangers of knife crime, emphasizing the importance of swift police action in tackling violent offenders.
The Metropolitan Police continues to encourage the public to report any suspicious activity related to weapons or violence.
How to report:
