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Inquest Jury finds Lewis Skelton Unlawfully Killed in Police Shooting

An Inquest Jury has returned a unanimous conclusion that Lewis Skelton was unlawfully killed after he was shot by a firearms officer of Humberside Police.

On 29 November 2016, Lewis, who had mental health issues, was reported to be carrying an axe on the streets of Hull.  He was assessed to be low risk and it was observed he had not threatened anyone.  Armed police were authorised to attend and Lewis was shot four times with Taser; before one officer discharged his pistol and shot him twice.

The Jury heard evidence over 6 weeks and was directed by Assistant Coroner Oliver Longstaff to consider alternative verdicts of lawful killing, unlawful killing or an open verdict.

Tim Moloney QC and Angela Patrick acted for the Skelton family, instructed by Hudgell Solicitors.

A statement from the family is available here.