Statement from Assistant Commissioner Sutherland following the conclusion of the first inquest into terrorist attack at Fishmongers' Hall

Statement from Assistant Commissioner Alistair Sutherland following the conclusion of the first inquest into terrorist attack at Fishmongers' Hall:

“I’d like to say a few words about the response and efforts of City of London Police and the emergency services on 29 November 2019.

“On behalf of the City of London Police, I’d like to extend our most sincere sympathy and condolence to the family and friends of Saskia Jones and Jack Merritt, and to the others who were injured or caught up in the attack.

“As emergency services, we constantly exercise and train for incidents such as this, whilst of course hoping we never have to put that preparation into practice.  But on that day, officers from my own force, City of London Police, worked with officers from the Metropolitan Police Service, BTP and the London Ambulance Service, as one team to save lives and protect the public, which is our primary responsibility.

“I’m particularly proud of my officers and all those who responded on the day from the emergency services who worked so hard to try to save the lives of Jack and Saskia and who gave life-saving first aid to those who suffered serious injury.  In his evidence, Professor Deakin said that they did a superb job and did everything they possibly could have done in the circumstances to provide medical care.

“We also saw outstanding bravery from members of the public and those attending the event, who put themselves in danger to try to  prevent others being harmed.  I’d also like to recognise them for their efforts in saving lives that day.

“Of course, this is not the end of the process.  Next week the second inquest starts, into the death of the terrorist, where the actions of my officers and others, will be examined and scrutinised.  Again, I will address that outcome at its conclusion.

“Today, I want to remember Jack and Saskia who devoted themselves to trying to make a better and more cohesive society and the members of the public whose selfless actions were so courageous.  And also the officers and medical staff, whose determination and commitment to public service is so much more important than the cowardly actions of one individual.

“And lastly, thank you to the Coroner, His Honour Judge Mark Lucraft QC and to the jury, for their work on this inquest.”