Harry Roberts, a key figure in British criminal history, has passed away at the age of 89. His notoriety stemmed from his involvement in the tragic murder of three unarmed police officers in London, an event that shocked the nation in the mid-1960s. Roberts became the face of the most extensive manhunt in modern British history.
Background of Harry Roberts
Roberts was sentenced to life in prison for his crimes. At his trial held at the Old Bailey, he was ordered to serve a minimum of 30 years. However, he ultimately spent 48 years behind bars before being released on parole in 2014.
Details of the Murders
The series of murders occurred during a sweltering summer on August 12, 1966. At that time, the UK was in a celebratory mood following its success in the World Cup. Culture was thriving with The Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine” charting at number 8.
On that fateful day, Roberts, along with accomplices Jack Witney and Jock Duddy, drove a stolen Standard Vanguard car into Braybrook Street, Shepherd’s Bush. They sought another vehicle to steal when their plans took a deadly turn.
- Police patrol car involved: Unmarked Triumph 2000, call-sign Foxtrot Eleven.
- Victims:
- Det Sgt Christopher Head, aged 30 – shot in the back.
- Det Con David Wombwell, aged 25 – shot beneath the eye.
- PC Geoffrey Fox, aged 41 – shot through the windscreen while attempting to escape.
The Manhunt and Legacy
Roberts’ actions inspired a notorious chant among football hooligans: “Harry Roberts is our friend / He kills coppers.” This phrase underscored the impact of his crimes on public sentiment and culture.
Judge Mr. Justice Glyn-Jones characterized the murders as “the most heinous crimes to have been committed in this country for a generation or more.” The shocking nature of the events led to widespread media coverage and intense public interest during the subsequent manhunt.
Harry Roberts leaves behind a complicated legacy as a man whose crimes prompted national outrage and reform in police practices. His life story remains a significant chapter in the annals of British law enforcement.
