AN OFF-DUTY police officer who died trying to wrestle a revolver from a psychotic gunman has been awarded the greatest honour the Chief Constable can bestow.
Pc Ian Dibell has been awarded high commendation in recognition of his bravery following the incident in Clacton on July 9, 2012.
The 41-year-old was shot in the chest by Peter Reeve in Fairlop Close, before the gunman's body was found in the grounds of All Saints' Church in Writtle the next morning.
An inquest on April 8, 2013, confirmed the actions before his death and that Mr Reeve committed suicide.
Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle said: "Ian's brave and selfless actions demonstrate his only motivation was to save lives, regardless of any personal risk.
"At the time of the incident, there were several members of the public present who might have been wounded or killed if Ian had not intervened as he did. Ian's brave, courageous and selfless actions no doubt saved others from harm.
"He consciously stepped into danger to protect others and tragically paid the ultimate price. His fearless actions were in the best traditions of policing.
"The sacrifice he made for the safety of others will never be forgotten."
Several other options for honouring Ian are also under consideration, locally and nationally.
Pc Ian Dibell has been awarded high commendation in recognition of his bravery following the incident in Clacton on July 9, 2012.
The 41-year-old was shot in the chest by Peter Reeve in Fairlop Close, before the gunman's body was found in the grounds of All Saints' Church in Writtle the next morning.
An inquest on April 8, 2013, confirmed the actions before his death and that Mr Reeve committed suicide.
Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle said: "Ian's brave and selfless actions demonstrate his only motivation was to save lives, regardless of any personal risk.
"At the time of the incident, there were several members of the public present who might have been wounded or killed if Ian had not intervened as he did. Ian's brave, courageous and selfless actions no doubt saved others from harm.
"He consciously stepped into danger to protect others and tragically paid the ultimate price. His fearless actions were in the best traditions of policing.
"The sacrifice he made for the safety of others will never be forgotten."
Several other options for honouring Ian are also under consideration, locally and nationally.
