The family of Essex Pc Ian Dibell, who was shot dead last year, have thanked people for their support following yesterday's inquest. Essex Coroner Caroline Beasley Murray recorded a verdict of unlawful killing after Chelmsford Crown Court heard Pc Dibell died while attempting to take a revolver from Peter Reeve during a neighbour dispute on July 9 last year.
A verdict of suicide was recorded in relation to Mr Reeve, who shot himself in a Writtle churchyard the next morning.
Ms Beasley Murray recommended Pc Dibell be awarded a medal for gallantry for his actions.
In a statement, his family said: "Ian's death has been an event in our lives that we do not think we will ever come to terms with.
"The loss of a loved one is never easy, but to lose a loved one under such circumstances is something that is beyond comprehension.
"The inquest has left no shadow of doubt that Ian acted selflessly and heroically to protect others.
"He placed himself in mortal danger and paid the ultimate price."
His family added they would remember him with "an immense sense of pride".
"Ian acted out of instinct to preserve the safety of others," the statement outlined.
"We would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their support and all of the hard work by Essex Police in the immediate aftermath of Ian's death and continued support in the subsequent months."
