Shooting Near Costco Sparks Police Response
A man in his 40s was shot dead outside the Costco superstore on Imperial Way, Croydon, on Thursday, 19 June. Police received reports of gunfire at 5.04pm. Officers arrived shortly after and discovered the victim near the loading area.
Emergency paramedics treated the man at the scene. He died shortly afterwards despite their efforts. Police have confirmed the victim’s next of kin have been informed and are receiving support.
Costco superstore on Imperial Way, Croydon
Eyewitness Describes Sudden Violence
A lorry driver delivering goods at the rear of Costco witnessed the shooting. He said, “I was dropping my load at the rear of the store when I saw a man running across the car park. Out of nowhere, another man opened fire ‘bang, bang’. He shot him as he was trying to escape. People were screaming and diving for cover. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing.”
Shoppers and staff fled in panic. A TikTok video recorded just outside Costco shows the immediate aftermath. It has since circulated widely on social media.
Forensic Teams Secure Scene
Police sealed off the area between the Costco car park entrance and the Selco loading bay. A forensic tent now stands in place. Officers have deployed drones to assist in collecting evidence from the scene.
Detectives from the Metropolitan Police’s Specialist Crime Command are leading the investigation. They are working with forensic experts and local officers. The investigation has entered its early stages with no arrests reported yet.
Detective Confirms Launch of Murder Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Dan Whitten confirmed that police had launched a murder investigation. He said, “This was a tragic incident and my thoughts are with the man’s family at this difficult time. Our team of specially trained officers are supporting them as our investigation progresses.”
DCI Whitten added, “Our enquiries are ongoing and we would urge any witnesses to come forward and share information with us.”
Appeal for Public Assistance
Police urged the public to help with information. Officers asked anyone who witnessed the event or has footage to come forward. People with information can call 101 quoting CAD 6530/19JUN. Crimestoppers can also be contacted anonymously at 0800 555 111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org.
The Metropolitan Police continue to maintain a visible presence in the area. Officers are speaking with residents and businesses near the crime scene. They are reviewing surveillance footage from local stores and traffic cameras.
Croydon Community Reacts to Fatal Incident
The shooting has shocked the local Croydon community. Imperial Way, a busy commercial zone, houses several retail warehouses including Costco and Selco. The area sees heavy foot and vehicle traffic, particularly on weekdays.
Several shoppers described chaos following the shots. Families abandoned trolleys and rushed to exits. Store staff directed people away from the scene as police arrived. Emergency vehicles blocked access to parts of Imperial Way for several hours.
Police Continue Search for Suspect
As of Friday morning, police had not announced any arrests. They are analysing digital evidence and witness statements. Specialist officers continue examining the crime scene. A full post-mortem is expected later this week.
Officers are pursuing several lines of enquiry. They believe the attack may have been targeted. Police have not yet released further details about the suspect or motive.
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Officers Support Victim’s Family
Specialist officers are providing ongoing support to the victim’s family. Police have not released the man’s name at this stage. Authorities will make details public once the formal identification is complete.
The Metropolitan Police continue to call for cooperation. They emphasised the importance of community support in solving violent crimes. The force remains committed to reducing gun-related violence in London.
Drone Technology Assists Crime Scene Analysis
Police used drones to photograph and map the scene from above. This technology allows investigators to record evidence quickly and accurately. Officers used the drones alongside forensic teams on the ground.
Footage from the drones will support reconstruction of the incident. Investigators plan to combine this data with CCTV and witness accounts. The Metropolitan Police have used similar methods in previous homicide cases.
Croydon Sees Rising Concerns Over Safety
The fatal shooting has reignited concerns over public safety in Croydon. Local authorities have acknowledged an increase in violent incidents in recent months. Community leaders plan to meet next week to address safety measures in commercial zones.
Residents have called for improved surveillance and police presence. Businesses near Imperial Way may review security protocols following the incident.
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