Chris Kaba: Family of man shot dead by police in London call for murder investigation – and questions about race roles | UK News
The family of a man shot dead by police has called for a homicide investigation into his murder – and questioned whether his life would have been “cut short” if he hadn’t. unlucky or not.
Chris Kaba, who will become a father in a few months, died after a chase involving armed officers ended in Streatham Hill, south London, on Monday night.
His Audi was hit by two police cars in a narrow street before a round was shot from a police weapon.
His family said on Wednesday they were “devastated” and needed “answers and accountability” over his death.
A statement released through the charity Inquest said Mr Kapa’s family “was seeking an investigation into his death from the outset”.
The Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) has been informed of the needs of the family, who “do not want any delays as has happened in other fatal shootings – if no, we and the public as a whole cannot believe that the police will be detaining the account,” the statement added.
“We also want the IOPC to let us know if a weapon was found during any searches of the vehicle Chris was driving,” the family said.
“We have not received this information even though the shooting happened almost two days ago.”
Please use Chrome browser for more accessible video player
Streatham shoots: ‘He’s very popular’
Mr. Kapa’s family has appealed for any witnesses to the pursuit or the shooting to continue.
“We are devastated; we need answers and we need accountability,” they said.
“We’re worried that if Chris wasn’t black, he’d be arrested Monday night and not have his life cut off.”
The Metropolitan Police earlier expressed condolences to Mr Kaba’s loved ones, saying the force understood that “family and community want answers”.
Commander Alexis Boon said the incident was “extremely disturbing” and pledged the force would work with the police watchdog to remediate the damage.
Scene in Streatham Hill, south London, where Mr. Kaba was shot dead
The official said: “My sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased man and I recognize the devastating and lasting impact this tragic incident will have on them.
“I understand that this incident is very disturbing and I would like to reassure the community that the Met is fully cooperating with the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) as they conduct a comprehensive investigation and independence.”
The shooting is being investigated by the IOPC, which is the norm for deaths following contact with police.
Speaking at the scene on Tuesday, Kim Alleyne, whose daughter Karimah Waite is engaged to Mr. Kaba, said of him: “He’s so loved. He’s funny. He’s super kind. He is always happy.He will do anything for you.
Kimberly Alleyne talks to reporters
“He’s a fiancé, he’s getting married in 5 months’ time. He’s about to have a baby he’ll never see.
“It’s horrible, it’s shocking and it’s so sad.”
Several people paying their respects at the scene said Mr Kaba was a rapper known as Madix or Mad Itch 67.
Jefferson Bosela, Kaba’s cousin, said: “He’s a good man, a good, happy guy. He doesn’t deserve it. Nobody deserves it.
“No one deserves to be shot by the police, whether they’re the good guys or the bad guys.”
