Fishmongers’ Hall: ‘Failures’ by security services and authorities contributed to victims’ deaths, concludes jury
Jurors gave an emotional tribute to the victims of the Fishmongers' Hall terror attack after finding a catalogue of failings led to the tragedy.
The panel had deliberated for just over five hours at the Guildhall in London before concluding various deficiencies contributed to the deaths of Saskia Jones, 23, and Jack Merritt, 25, in November 2019.
The Cambridge University graduates were stabbed to death by convicted terrorist Usman Khan, 28, who had been allowed to travel unaccompanied to an event in London 11 months after his release from prison.
Afterwards, the jurors paid tribute to Ms Jones and Mr Merritt saying: "The world lost two bright stars that dreadful day.''
Speaking in front of members of the bereaved families in court, a juror read out a statement offering "heartfelt condolences'' to all those who loved them.
She said: "They clearly touched the lives of so many, ours included.
"We wanted to convey to the families how seriously we have taken our collective responsibility. How important this is to us, how much their children matter. ''
The jury also thanked emergency services and the "astonishing individuals'' who put themselves in "real danger'' to help.
Earlier, Coroner Mark Lucraft QC had directed the jury to find that both victims were unlawfully killed.
The jury agreed with a brief outline of the facts surrounding the deaths in a terror attack.
They then had to answer three key questions relating to failures, omissions and deficiencies in the lead-up to the tragedy at an alumni event held by Learning Together, an offender educational organisation associated with Cambridge University.
They jury found "omission or failure'' in the management of Khan in the community by state agencies contributed to the deaths.
Asked to give a explanation for the conclusion, they issued a series of bullet points.
- Unacceptable management and lack of accountability.
- Serious deficiencies in the management of Khan by MAPPA (Multi-Agency Public Protection Arrangements).
- Insufficient experience and training.
- Blind spot to Khan's unique risks due to "poster boy'' image.
- Lack of psychological assessment post-release from prison.
The jury found there was "omission or failure'' in the sharing of information and guidance by agencies responsible for monitoring and investigating Khan which had contributed to the deaths.
They identified a "missed opportunity'' for those with expertise and experience to give guidance.
Finally, the jury found omissions or deficiencies in the organisation of and security around the Fishmongers' Hall event contributed to the deaths.
On this question, the jury stated there was a lack of communication and accountability; inadequate consideration of key guidance between parties; serious deficiencies in the management of Khan by Mappa and a failure to complete event specific risk assessment by any party.