A man suspected of killing Middleton soldier Drummer Lee Rigby on a Woolwich street has appeared in court charged with his murder.
Michael Adebowale, 22, who was shot by armed police at the scene, was charged by Metropolitan Police late last night.
The charge came one week after Drummer Rigby, 25, was hacked to death in broad daylight as he returned to his south-east London barracks.
With the high publicity surrounding the murder which has shocked a nation, the Crown Prosecution Service have warned that Adebowale still has the right to a fair trial.
“There is sufficient evidence to prosecute Michael Adebowale and it is in the public interest to do so. This man is now charged with serious criminal offences,” said Sue Hemming, head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter-Terrorism Division.
“It is extremely important that nothing should be reported which could prejudice this trial.”
Adebowale was questioned yesterday after he was discharged from hospital where he had been under armed guard since being shot by officers.
As well as the charge of the murder of Drummer Rigby, he has been charged with possession of a firearm, contrary to section 16A of the Firearms Act 1968.
He appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court where his case was referred to the Old Bailey.
Another suspect, Michael Adebolajo, 28, remains in hospital.
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