Armed Cop on Trial for Crashing While Racing to Streatham Terror Attack
PC Paul Fisher, 46, an armed police officer, is under the microscope at Southwark Crown Court. He’s accused of dangerous driving after losing control of his unmarked BMW X5 during the chaotic 2020 Streatham terror attack response.
High-Speed Crash Amid Terror Panic
Fisher was speeding to the scene of a stabbing spree by terrorist Sudesh Amman. With sirens blaring but blue lights off, Fisher’s BMW smashed into a taxi’s Toyota, a Ford Fiesta, and then a wall. The crash left the other drivers and a female officer with minor injuries.
Despite the mayhem, Fisher denies dangerous driving. He was part of a surveillance operation trailing Amman, fresh out of prison just ten days earlier. The 20-year-old terrorist stabbed multiple people on Streatham High Road before police shot him dead.
‘I Had to Save Lives’ – Officer Speaks Out
“I had to use my driving skills to the maximum of my ability to literally save lives. I believed he would continue to stab people… seconds can make a difference,”
Fisher told the court. He said he reached over 80mph before the crash, blaming a split-second error for losing control on a bend.
Describing the scene as “pandemonium,” Fisher said he feared Amman might be wearing a suicide vest, pushing him to get there fast. He admitted his mistake and expressed deep regret:
“I was, and still am, annoyed with myself. I failed due to a split-second error… It was my mistake, I failed that day. I let people down and I can only apologise for that.”
Fisher also revealed he would have slowed down had his colleagues warned him about his speed.
Trial Highlights Pressure on Emergency Responders
As the trial unfolds, it shines a harsh light on the incredible pressure officers face when seconds count. It also raises questions about safe driving standards for police rushing into life-threatening situations.
The case continues, with the court weighing Fisher’s split-second decisions during one of London’s darkest moments.
