A man was shot dead by armed police on Christmas Eve
A man has been shot dead by armed police in Worcestershire.
West Mercia Police said officers were called to an address in Fownhope Close, Redditch by paramedics at around 14:00 GMT on Christmas Eve over concerns for the safety of a man who was armed with a knife.
The force said a police negotiator attempted to resolve the situation for several hours, but the man was shot at about 19:40 GMT. After some time he was declared dead.
The force said it had referred itself to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC).
There was no one else at the address at that time.
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 is causing to the local community and I want to reassure residents that we are following all appropriate procedures, including making immediate referral to the IOPC, as is mandatory and correct.” “
He said the force would cooperate with the investigation, which would include providing body-worn camera footage.
The force said it was unable to comment further while the investigation continued.
