Man shot dead by armed police on Christmas Eve

A 39-year-old man has been shot dead by armed police in Worcestershire.

West Mercia Police said officers were called by paramedics to an address in Fownhope Close, Redditch, at about 14:00 GMT on Christmas Eve over concerns for the safety of a man, who had a knife.

A police negotiator attempted to resolve the situation over several hours, the force added, but the man was shot at about 19:40 GMT. He was pronounced dead a short time later.

The force said it had referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC).

No-one else was in the address at the time.

"This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with everyone affected at this difficult time," Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills said.

He added: "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 IOPC, as is mandatory and right."

He said the force would support the investigation, which would include providing body worn camera footage.

West Mercia Police was unable to comment further while the investigation takes place, it added.

The IOPC said police officers had fired Tasers during the stand-off before a firearms officer shot and killed the man.

A spokesperson for the police watchdog said it had seized a knife from the property and would be examining police weapons and reviewing footage.

The spokesperson said West Mercia officers involved had provided initial accounts of what happened.

IOPC director of operations Steve Noonan said his staff would "independently investigate" all the circumstances around 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 into what took place," he added.

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