A Sunday afternoon in Bermondsey shattered into chaos as police officers executing a raid found themselves facing a brutal, unexpected assault. The scene unfolded on Marine Street, quickly escalating from a routine operation to a desperate fight for safety.
The initial confrontation involved a powerful Cane Corso dog, allegedly unleashed upon the officers as they approached a flat. Before they could fully react to the animal, a man emerged wielding axes, turning the situation into a terrifying, close-quarters battle.
Two officers bore the brunt of the attack, suffering injuries from both the axes and the dog’s aggression. The immediate priority shifted to securing the scene and providing medical attention to the wounded, as colleagues worked to subdue the assailant.
Responding swiftly, officers deployed a Taser, successfully arresting the suspect on suspicion of attempted murder. The Cane Corso was immediately taken into police custody, removed from the volatile environment and placed in secure kennels.
Thankfully, the injuries sustained by the two officers, while serious, were determined to be non-life-threatening. Both were transported to hospital for treatment and have since been discharged, a testament to their resilience and the rapid response of emergency services.
A third officer sustained a minor injury during the ordeal, receiving on-scene treatment and requiring no further medical intervention. The entire incident left a visible mark on the community, with onlookers reporting a significant police presence around Bowley House on Old Jamaica Road.
Stephen Coombes, 43, a resident of Marine Street, has now been formally charged with attempted murder. The charges also include being in charge of a dangerously out-of-control dog that caused injury, a racially aggravated public order offence, and harassment intended to instill fear.
Coombes is scheduled to appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Monday, where he will face the consequences of his alleged actions. The investigation continues, piecing together the events that led to this violent confrontation and ensuring justice for the injured officers.
