A 39-year-old man was fatally shot by armed police in Redditch, Worcestershire, following a tense standoff on Tuesday, December 24th. West Mercia Police have referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for investigation.
The events unfolded at around 2pm when officers were called to Fownhope Close by West Midlands Ambulance Service over concerns for the safety of a man armed with a knife. Despite hours of negotiation by a police negotiator, the situation escalated, resulting in the man being shot by armed officers at approximately 7.40pm.
Efforts were made to save the man’s life, but he was pronounced dead shortly after 8pm. No one else was present at the address during the incident.
Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills expressed condolences, saying, “This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with everyone affected at this difficult time. We do not underestimate the shock and concern this may cause the local community.” He assured residents that appropriate procedures are being followed, including the immediate referral to the IOPC, which will now lead the investigation.
The IOPC’s investigation will include all relevant evidence, such as body-worn camera footage, and further details will emerge in due course. West Mercia Police stated they would not be commenting further on the matter while the independent inquiry is underway.