Killing of a Constable: Officer died serving community
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.CONSTABLE Patrick Dunne became the victim of a modern, urban crime while performing one of the most traditional of policing duties. He had bicycled to settle a domestic dispute.
All day yesterday, tributes were being paid to PC Dunne, led by Paul Condon, the Metropolitan Police Commissioner. He had not known PC Dunne, he said, but he knew hundreds like him: 'He was a good, honest, kind, gentle local bobby doing what the Met does best, doing what British policing does best - working with his local community.' His file was full of letter of thanks from local people.
PC Dunne, 44, a single man, joined the police three years ago. On his application form he said he wanted to join to help society. His final sentence read: 'I am apprehensive about the less pleasant aspects of the job but I hope I will be able to cope satisfactorily with them.'
Born in Sussex, he moved north to teach in the Bolton, Greater Manchester, area, returning to London in 1986; he taught at another school and obtained an Open University degree. His mother, 67, who still lives in London, was last night being treated in hospital for shock.
His brother, Ivan Dunne, 40, an electrician, said PC Dunne had never expressed worries about the dangers of policing: 'He loved the job.' He did not believe his brother wanted to carry a gun. Asked about PC Dunne's killers, he said: 'I'm sure when it sinks in, I will probably despise them with all my heart for what they have done.'
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments