Manhunt launched as off-duty policeman shot dead

Essex Police named the alleged gunman as Peter Reeve, described as white, aged 64 and from the Clacton area but urged members of the public not to approach him.

Pc Ian Dibell and the other man were shot in Redbridge Road, Clacton, at about 3.30pm yesterday.

Residents reported having heard a woman screaming then what they believed to be gunshots, followed by further screaming and additional shooting.

When officers arrived on the scene they found Mr Dibell dead and the second man lying in the road with leg injuries.

A spokesman said: “Residents are being urged to remain indoors while armed officers locate the gunman.

“Neighbourhood policing officers are maintaining a high-profile and visible presence in the community, supporting victims and witnesses.

“Members of the public are urged to contact police on 999 if they see the gunman who should not be approached.”

Essex Police said the force had received “many phone calls” from members of the public and officers were confident of catching the gunman.

Teams of armed officers fanned out across the town and a police helicopter was deployed, while armed police entered a property in nearby Havering Close shortly before 7.30pm.

At the scene a white tent had been erected in front of a house and more than 13 police vehicles were parked nearby, including a van full of armed officers.

Businesses locked their doors keeping staff and visitors inside and houses nearby were evacuated.

Paul McKeever, chairman of the Police Federation, wrote on Twitter: “Every police officer in the country is thinking of our colleagues in Essex. Our thoughts are with the family and friends of our colleague who has been killed in Essex. It’s a very sad day indeed.”

He paid tribute to the murdered police constable, saying he had “demonstrated remarkable courage and bravery whilst off-duty and has paid the ultimate price”.