Police Seek Anonymity in Fatal Shooting Inquest

Surrey Police has formally applied for nine firearms officers to remain anonymous during the inquest into the fatal shooting of Joel Stenning. The incident occurred in the early hours of August 11, 2024, on Nursery Road in Knaphill, Surrey, where Stenning, a 29-year-old roofer, was shot. He later died on August 15, 2024, in a London hospital due to complications from the gunshot wound.

Chief Superintendent Justin Burtenshaw argued at Surrey Coroner's Court that naming the officers could incite retribution from organized crime groups and cause distress to the officers and their families. He emphasized that such a disclosure cannot be undone and could impact their ability to provide evidence. The police force also suggested that anonymity is crucial for officers serving in specialist anti-terrorism roles.