Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Tuesday, 20th August 2024, at 15:45hrs
The Metropolitan Police Service has been cleared of any wrongdoing following the shooting of a man who was armed and wearing body armour at a property in Southwark back in January.
In a statement released today, The Metropolitan Police Service said,
“In January, Response officers responded to a call where there had been reports of a man armed with weapons and threatening to harm people inside an address in Southwark.
The officers knew there were people inside and had genuine fears for their safety.
Armed officers were called and attempted to get the man – who was later identified as Bryce Hodgson – to surrender. They entered the property and shots were fired.
The officers, assisted by paramedics, provided emergency first aid to Hodgson, who was wearing body armour, but he sadly died.
An independent investigation has found that our officers’ actions were necessary and proportionate, and that they also recognised the bravery of all those involved.
Commander Charmain Brenyah, responsible for firearms policing in the Met, said: “We are pleased that the IOPC has found our officers’ actions were appropriate.
“As well as acknowledging their professionalism, I too must also commend the officers for their bravery during this incident.
“The two response officers who initially attended the scene entered knowing an armed man was inside.
“They put their own lives at risk to try and confront Mr Hodgson and minimise the risk he posed. They only withdrew from the property when advised to do so, after a sword had been swung at them on more than one occasion. They truly embody our key values of integrity and courage.
“The armed officers who arrived on scene also showed incredible bravery in trying to negotiate with Mr Hodgson, who told them he was intent on harming someone who may be in the property. When he pointed a loaded crossbow at the officers, police shot him twice, striking him in the neck and chest.
“Weapons recovered from the scene included crossbows, a knife, a sword and a hatchet.
“As this incident shows, our firearms officers play a vital role in protecting the public and unarmed colleagues, all while facing unique and extreme threats to their own lives. Their courage in being prepared to confront the armed and dangerous to protect our communities should never be underestimated.”
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