A FORMER soldier shot dead by police during a drugs raid was killed lawfully, an inquest has ruled.
Sean Fitzgerald, 31, was killed by a single gunshot during an armed West Midlands Police raid in Burnaby Road, Holbrooks, in January 2019. He was unarmed.
The BBC reported that the inquest jury identified three failures in the police operation, including the level of intelligence and inadequate prior surveillance of premises.
West Midlands Police Assistant Chief Constable Damian Barratt said: “We note the conclusion of lawful killing that the jury at Leamington Justice Centre has returned today following the inquest concerning the death of Sean Fitzgerald and we offer our sincere condolences to the family of Mr Fitzgerald.
“The inquest has been complex and challenging for all those involved.
“We note the points raised within the findings and will ensure that these are fully considered in order to identify any learning in future operations.
“Armed policing is complex and challenging and our firearms officers put themselves in harm’s way to protect the public on a daily basis, and undergo continuous rigorous training to ensure they are suitably equipped for such a vital and demanding role.”
