The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is investigating the fatal police shooting of a man at a property in Bedford on Monday.
A 41-year-old man died after being shot by armed police at an address in Aylesbury Road following a lengthy overnight incident.
The watchdog said investigators were sent to the scene immediately, and that police followed post-incident procedures after Bedfordshire Police referred the incident to the IOPC.
Read: Aylesbury Road incident ends in tragedy as man shot by police gunman
Overnight standoff
According to the IOPC, police were first called at around 10.40pm on Sunday, 11 May, following reports of disorderly behaviour involving a man damaging a vehicle while carrying a weapon.
The man then entered a property in Aylesbury Road and refused to come outside, while also making threats towards officers.
Armed police and negotiators attended the scene overnight and attempted to engage with the man, before armed officers were later stood down.
However, shortly after 6am, police began evacuating neighbouring properties after the man was reportedly seen pouring petrol from a window and officers detected the smell of gas.
The IOPC said footage later showed the man presenting what appeared to be a firearm from a window of the property, prompting armed officers to return to the scene.
Shot fired
The watchdog confirmed the man was shot shortly after 9.30am while inside the property.
Armed officers were positioned outside the address at the time.
The IOPC said police firearms records showed one live round was fired from a police rifle, while two baton rounds were also discharged during the incident, one earlier in the standoff.
Ambulance crews attended, but the man was pronounced dead shortly before 10.30am.
Investigators said what appeared to be a non-police issue firearm had been recovered from inside the property and would now be examined.
‘Essential for public confidence’
IOPC director Emily Barry said: “Our thoughts and sympathies are with the man’s family and friends and everyone impacted by this incident, including the local Bedford community.
“We have met with the man’s family to explain our role and they will be kept updated as our investigation progresses.
“Fatal police shootings are fortunately rare, however when they do occur, it’s essential for public confidence that an independent investigation is carried out to establish the full circumstances.
“Our investigation is in its early stages, but we are working quickly to obtain and review evidence as we investigate the actions and decision-making of the officers involved.”
Evidence gathering
The IOPC said investigators are reviewing body-worn camera, drone, and police vehicle footage as part of the investigation.
Initial accounts have already been obtained from the officers involved, with further detailed interviews expected over the coming week.
Scene examinations and enquiries with local residents are also continuing.
The man’s identity has not yet been formally confirmed.
