Police chief tells of sad loss
Shropshire's police chief has revealed that the shooting of Constable Richard Gray was the first time in his 22-year career that one of his colleagues had been murdered.
Chief Superintendent Guy Rutter led the tributes at a packed public meeting in Castlefields - the community at the centre of the fatal shootings on Sunday morning.
Last night, prayers were said in memory of father-of-two Mr Gray, who was shot and killed by labourer Peter Medlicott, who later turned the .222 rifle on himself.
Mr Gray, known to his friends as Ricky, died while protecting two unarmed colleagues being held at gunpoint.
Mr Rutter told the meeting that a team of 30 officers from West Mercia Police, led by Detective Chief Inspector Sheila Thornes, were investigating the incident, which happened in New Park Road.
"Ricky was a dedicated officer of the highest order. He was awarded no less than five commendations," Mr Rutter said.
John Crawley, commissioner for West Mercia, said: "It is a terrible sadness that this officer has been lost in this way to the police service and to the welfare of the people of Shropshire. It highlights the very real risks armed officers - all of them volunteers to serve in this capacity - face on our behalf."
As well as paying tribute to Constable Richard Gray, Chief Superintendent Rutter also attempted to allay residents' fears and concerns following the tragic events of last weekend.Mr Rutter said: "I recognise the huge impact that these shootings have had and will continue to have on the community of Castlefields.
"This is no consolation, but luckily we are fortunate that incidents of this nature are very rare and Shrewsbury is one of the safest places in England and Wales."
Mr Rutter said Mr Gray's funeral would take place in Shrewsbury at the end of next week and added that a fund had been set up for his family.
He said cheques made payable to West Mercia Police Authority were being collected at Shrewsbury Police Station in Monkm- oor.
He added that Mr Gray's family wanted to pass on their gratitude to all who have sent messages of support and condolence.
The Reverend Dave Mawson, of All Saints' Church, led prayers and a moment of reflection to remember the two dead men.
"We can uphold our community in our hearts. We all bring our feelings for the community to which we all belong," he said.
Answering questions from the floor, Mr Rutter denied Shrewsbury had a gun culture.
He added: "We all hope it never happens again."
Meeting chairman Alan Mosley said the forum gave people the chance to "gather some strength" from the "awful things" that had happened in their community.
Floral tributes and cards for both men continue to be laid at the scene of the shootings.
The tributes have been tied to a tree opposite the flat in New Park Road and people have been standing paying their respects to the two men.
An online book of condolence for Mr Gray has also been opened by West Mercia Police on the force's website.
