Wood Green police shooting: Firearms officer to be suspended
- Published
Jermaine Baker was shot in Bracknell Close near to Wood Green Crown Court
A Met Police firearms officer is to be suspended after a man was shot dead during an alleged attempt to escape from a prison van.
Jermaine Baker, 28, was killed during a police operation near Wood Green Crown Court in north London on Friday.
The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) confirmed it had launched an investigation into events.
Met Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Terry said it was a "very difficult time for everyone".
He said: "The exact circumstances that led to Mr Baker's death must be thoroughly and independently examined. That is the role of the IPCC.
"It is only through establishing the full facts, as quickly as possible, as to what took place that day that the best interests of justice and of all those affected can be served."
The IPCC said in a statement: "The Independent Police Complaints Commission has launched a homicide investigation into Mr Baker's death. The launch of a criminal investigation does not mean that criminal charges will necessarily follow.
Jermaine Baker's death is being investigated by the police watchdog, the IPCC
"As this is now a criminal investigation, the IPCC is limited on what further information can be provided."
The Met Police has agreed to the IPCC suggestion that its officer be suspended.
Mr Terry added: "All of our firearms officers, who are all volunteers, do a job that is difficult and often dangerous. They all fully understand, quite rightly, that they will need to account for their actions if they use lethal force."
He said the IPCC would receive the Met's fullest support.
The Met was listening to concerns raised by communities in Haringey and across the capital, he added.
BBC home affairs correspondent Tom Symonds says the IPCC automatically investigates all police shootings but it is unusual for a police officer responsible for firing his weapon to be suspended.
However, our correspondent adds, the IPCC says its investigation into the incident has entered a new phase - and it is now carrying out a homicide inquiry.
Four men appeared in court earlier charged with attempting to help prisoners escape.