Police officers praised for capturing murder suspect

Two police officers, who detained an armed murder suspect, have been commended for their actions today.

PC Clive Deller and PC James Bushell were first on the scene after 77-year-old Rosemary Shearman was found dead in her home in Hornchurch.

They realised that a suspect was possibly still in the house - and searched until they found a locked door. After identifying themselves as police officers and calling for the suspect to surrender, they kicked the door down and were confronted with the sight of the suspect covered in blood, and brandishing a knife, in a distressed and deranged state. Despite strong commands from the officers to drop the knife, the suspect advanced on the officers, still firmly grasping what transpired to be the murder weapon.

PC Deller used his baton to disarm the suspect, enabling PC Bushell to step in and physically restrain him. It soon became apparent the man was covered in numerous self-inflicted knife injuries, including a stab wound to the abdomen, and required urgent medical attention.

Thomas Blazquez, 51, of South Woodford, was convicted of murdering 77-year-old Rosemary Shearman, at Snaresbrook Crown Court on Thursday, 1 May. He was sentenced the same day to life imprisonment, to serve a minimum of 18 years.

PC Deller and PC Bushell were commended for displaying courage, professionalism and compassion in the apprehension of a disturbed and armed murder suspect and the preservation of a serious crime scene.