In a dramatic court hearing at the Old Bailey on Monday, a police driver known only as AY3 recounted his fear that his colleague would be run over just before Chris Kaba was shot by a Metropolitan Police marksman. AY3 described the unfolding events as intense, detailing the moments leading up to the tragic shooting. The trial involves fellow armed officer Martyn Blake, 40, who is facing charges for the murder of Mr. Kaba in Streatham, south-east London on September 5, 2022.
The 24-year-old Mr. Kaba was shot through the windscreen of the Audi he was driving as he attempted to maneuver between a marked police patrol car and a parked vehicle. AY3, driving an unmarked police Volvo behind the Audi, observed the events closely. He saw an officer identified as NX109 approaching the driver’s door of the Audi, and expressed his concern as the scene unfolded rapidly. AY3 recalled the gravity of the situation, stating that his focus was entirely on the unfolding events near the driver’s side of the car.
As the Audi moved forward, AY3 feared for NX109’s safety, perceiving that he was at risk of being struck by the rear wheels of the vehicle. The situation escalated as another officer, NX137, also approached the driver’s side of the Audi. AY3, upon reviewing dashcam footage and body-worn camera footage, acknowledged the complexities of perceptions in such high-pressure situations. The court learned that officers are cautioned against being in the “triangle of death,” a hazardous area near the front of a vehicle.
When the Audi reversed towards the Volvo for a second time, AY3 heard a gunshot, followed by the call of “shots fired” and then “head shot.” Despite the intense circumstances, AY3, along with others, administered CPR to Mr. Kaba until paramedics arrived at the scene. The court also heard that officers are not trained for situations involving vehicles moving back and forth due to the inherent dangers involved.
The trial highlighted the challenges that police officers face in rapidly evolving and potentially life-threatening scenarios. The evidence presented underscored the complexities of perception and decision-making in high-stress situations. AY3’s testimony shed light on the harrowing events leading to the tragic shooting of Chris Kaba, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and scrutiny of such incidents to ensure accountability and justice in the legal process.