Man shot dead by armed police on Christmas Eve after concerns for his safety

A tragic incident occurred on Christmas Eve as a 39-year-old man was fatally wounded by armed police officers in Redditch, Worcestershire. West Mercia Police were called to Fownhope Close around 2pm by West Midlands Ambulance Service following reports about a man with a knife.

Efforts to deal with the incident prolonged over 'several hours', but the individual was shot at approximately 7.40pm. He was officially pronounced dead after 8pm, according to the Express. No one else was in the property at the time.

Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills told the publication: "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."