Met Police to Hold Special Memorial for Slain Sgt Matt Ratana One Year On
Remembering a Fallen Hero
A year after the tragic killing of Sergeant Matt Ratana, the Met Police has announced a special memorial service this November. The event will replace the full-force funeral that was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Fatal Shooting at Croydon Custody Centre
On 25 September 2020, Sgt Ratana, 54, was shot dead while on duty at the Met’s Custody Centre in Windmill Lane, Croydon. A man is now charged with his murder.
Moment of Silence and National Tribute
Officers and staff across the Met will pause for a minute’s silence at 11am on 25 September to honour Sgt Ratana’s memory. Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick and Senior Chaplain Jonathan Osborne will represent the force at National Police Memorial Day in Lincoln, paying tribute to Ratana and all officers who sacrificed their lives protecting the public.
Commissioner Pays Tribute
“Matt has very much been in our thoughts over the last year, as we grieve for him, but also as we celebrate his life. His legacy lives on with his family and friends from the Met, rugby, and beyond,” said Dame Cressida Dick.
“When Matt was killed, COVID-19 meant the Met was not able to mark his death with a force funeral in the way that we would have wished. I said at the time that when restrictions were no longer in place, we would hold a full memorial service that would allow us to come together in Matt’s memory.
“For many people the anniversary of Matt’s murder and National Police Memorial Day will be a time of particular sadness and reflection. We will never forget all of our fallen colleagues and will remember and honour them forever.”
