Matt Ratana: suspect arrested for murder months after Worthing policeman’s death

The man suspected of murdering Matt Ratana, a police officer from Worthing, has been arrested months after his death.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

According to the Metropolitan Police, Sergeant Ratana was shot at Croydon Custody Centre in Windmill Lane at approximately 2.15am on Friday, September 25.

Officers and paramedics treated him at the scene and he was taken to hospital by London Ambulance Service. He subsequently died at hospital, and sparked an outpouring of grief and shock across the country.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The 54-year-old head coach at East Grinstead Rugby Club has also been nominated for a BBC Sports Personality of the Year award since his death.
A 23-year-old man, who had been arrested for a separate offence and was handcuffed at the time of the shooting, was detained by officers at Croydon Custody Centre shortly after the incident and was then taken by ambulance to hospital with a gunshot wound.
No police firearms were discharged during the incident, the Met added.
He had spent months fighting for his life in hospital, but his condition has now ‘stabilised and is no longer considered life-threatening’, a Met spokesman said.

Sgt Matt RatanaSgt Matt Ratana
Sgt Matt Ratana

They added: “Therefore, on Friday, November 13, he was considered fit to be arrested on suspicion of murder.
“However, as the man remains in hospital, officers will liaise with the relevant medical and legal teams to make an assessment of when he will be fit for interview.
“Specialist family liaison officers from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command are in regular contact with and supporting Matt’s partner, his son and wider family. They have been informed of today’s arrest.”