Pc's killer dead in churchyard (From Witney Gazette)

Pc's killer dead in churchyard

11:07am Tuesday 10th July 2012 in National News © Press Association 2013

A man wanted for murder after a police officer was killed has been found dead in a churchyard, police said.

Pc Ian Dibell was shot dead on Monday and a member of the public suffered leg injuries after Peter Reeve, 64, ran amok in a residential street in the seaside town of Clacton, Essex.

Pc Dibell, who lived near the Redbridge Road crime scene, was off-duty at the time and it is understood he intervened in a dispute.

Reeve was found dead on Tuesday morning in the village of Writtle near Chelmsford.

Essex Chief Constable Jim Barker-McCardle said: "I can confirm Peter Reeve, the man wanted for the murder of a serving police officer, was found dead, with a weapon in a Writtle churchyard and no shots were fired by the police."

He said a handgun had been used in the attack and Mr Reeve, who was "largely unknown to police", did not hold a firearms licence.

His family said in a statement: "The family are devastated by the news. We are immensely proud of Ian and the courage he showed. We take some comfort from his bravery.

"Policing was in his blood and Ian selflessly went to the aid of people in desperate need without fear or thought for his own safety. It was who he was, a hero.

"He has paid for the act in the most devastating way. He will be deeply missed and no words can describe the loss. He was very much loved by his family.

"We would like to thank Essex Police, friends and colleagues within the policing family and the public for their kind words and support. Finally the family now asks that the media leave us in piece to grieve for Ian."