Mark Saunders inquest
8th October 2010
A Jury at the Westminster Coroners Court returned a verdict of lawful killing in the case of Mark Saunders. The Firearms Officers involved released the following statement through their lawyers:
The officers involved in the sad death of Mr Mark Saunders want to express their heartfelt respects to the family.
Since the 6th May 2008 they have awaited the inquest to give their account of what actions they took and why they took them. All involved only ever wanted a peaceful resolution to the incident.
Firearms officers are all volunteers, they perform a unique role in policing. They place themselves between the public and harm’s way. Nothing can adequately prepare a police officer for the actual taking of someone's life, they all joined the police service to protect the public and save life.
Our thoughts are with all those involved and their families.