Man Shot Dead by Armed Police on Christmas Eve in Worcestershire

A 39-year-old man was shot and killed by armed police in Worcestershire on Christmas Eve after a standoff at a residential address in Redditch.

West Mercia Police received a call from paramedics around 14:00 GMT on December 24, regarding concerns for the safety of a man in Fownhope Close, who was reported to be in possession of a knife. Police negotiators spent several hours trying to de-escalate the situation, but at around 19:40 GMT, the man was shot by a firearms officer. He was pronounced dead shortly afterward.

The police have referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for an independent investigation, as is standard procedure in such cases.

Police Statement and Community Concerns

Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills expressed condolences, saying, “This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with everyone affected at this difficult time.” He reassured the public, emphasizing that the police were following the correct protocols and had made an immediate referral to the IOPC. “We do not underestimate the shock and concern this may cause the local community,” he added.

The police also confirmed that no one else was at the property during the incident.

Investigation Details

The IOPC has confirmed that Tasers were used by officers during the standoff before the decision was made to fire a weapon. Investigators have seized a knife from the scene and will examine police weapons and review body camera footage as part of their inquiry.

IOPC Director of Operations Steve Noonan stated that the office would conduct a thorough and independent investigation into all circumstances surrounding the man’s death. “While police shootings are thankfully rare, it is understandable that people will be concerned when it does happen, and it is important we conduct a detailed and robust investigation,” he said.

West Mercia Police has refrained from commenting further while the investigation is ongoing.