Knife-wielding man, 39, shot dead by police following 5-hour Christmas Eve stand-off
A forensic investigator at the scene on Fownhope Close in Redditch
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A man has died after being shot by armed police following a five-hour negotiation on Christmas Eve.
The incident occurred yesterday evening at a property in Redditch, Worcestershire, after concerns were raised for the safety of a man with a knife.
West Midlands Ambulance Service initially called police to an address in Fownhope Close at around 2pm on Tuesday.
A police negotiator spent several hours attempting to engage with the man before the shooting occurred at approximately 7.40pm.
A forensic investigator at the scene on Fownhope Close in Redditch
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Police at the scene on Fownhope Close in Redditch, Worcestershire, where a 39-year-old man was shot by armed police on Christmas Eve
PA
Despite efforts to save him, the 39-year-old man was pronounced dead shortly after 8pm.
Police confirmed that no other individuals were present at the address at the time of the incident.
Assistant Chief Constable Grant Wills described the incident as "tragic" and expressed sympathy for those affected.
“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.”
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A police forensic tent at the scene
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Officers from West Midlands Police were called by West Midlands Ambulance Service at around 2pm on Tuesday after concerns were raised for the safety of a man with a knife
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Confirming a referral had been made, an IOPC spokesman said: “We can confirm we have begun an independent investigation following an incident at an address in Fownhope Close, Redditch, at around 7.40pm yesterday in which a man was shot by police and sadly pronounced dead soon after.
“After being informed of the incident by West Mercia Police, we sent investigators to the scene… to begin our inquiries and start gathering evidence.
“Our investigation is in its very early stages.”
The force said attempts were made over "several hours" to deal with the incident but the man was shot at around 7.40pm
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Police at the scene on Fownhope Close in Redditch,
PA
Uniformed police officers were on duty outside the three-story block of flats, with forensic experts present, and a tent set up at the rear of the building.
Tributes have been made on social media paying tribute to the man who died.
One wrote: “RIP, thoughts are with you all.”
Another said: “So sorry to hear this! Sending love to all the family.”
One person wrote: “RIP bro gonna miss you so much xx.”
And another said: “RIP mate, thoughts are with everyone at this sad time x.”
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