Police continue to search the crime scene in Birstall, West Yorkshire, England Friday, June 17, 2016 the day after Labour MP Jo Cox was murdered in the street outside her constituency advice surgery. (Danny Lawson/PA via AP)
LONDON (AP) — The accused killer of British lawmaker Jo Cox has given his name as “Death to traitors, freedom for Britain” in his first court appearance.
Thomas Mair, 52, made his defiant statement Saturday in Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London.
West Yorkshire Police had charged Mair overnight with murder, inflicting grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent to commit a crime, and other gun charges.
Labour Party lawmaker Cox was killed Thursday after getting out of her car in the town of Birstall in her home constituency. She was 41.
Thomas Mair (YouTube screenshot)
Vigils have been held across the country in her memory and Parliament has been recalled Monday to honor her.
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US President Barack Obama telephoned her husband to express condolences and released a statement praising her commitment and service.
Campaigning ahead of Thursday’s referendum on whether Britain should leave the European Union has been suspended since the shooting.
Police have praised the bravery of an elderly man who tried to aid Cox and was seriously injured. The man is recovering in hospital.
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The attack has raised security concerns for other members of Parliament who routinely meet with constituents in public meetings.
Murdered British Labour Member of Parliament Jo Cox (Yui Mok/PA via AP)
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