Man shot dead by armed police after five-hour stand-off on Christmas Eve

A man with a knife was shot dead by armed police last night after a five-hour stand-off in Redditch.

Police were called to the incident in Fownhope Close just after 2pm yesterday after ‘significant’ concerns were raised for a man inside a property.

West Mercia Police said a police negotiator responded, and tried to resolve the situation by engaging with the man over several hours but, at approximately 7.40pm he was shot dead by police.

Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead just after 8pm. No one else was in the address at the time.

West Mercia Police has since referred itself to the IOPC (Independent Office for Police Conduct) over the shooting.

Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills said: ‘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 and I want to reassure residents that we are following all appropriate procedures, this included making an immediate referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), as is mandatory and right.

‘We will support their investigation, which will include providing all information we hold, including body worn camera footage.’

West Mercia Police added: ‘As the IOPC will now lead on the investigation we will not be able to comment further at this time.’