Christmas Eve showdown as armed police shoot lifeless knife-wielding man in British city

A 39-year-old man has been shot dead by armed police on Christmas Eve. The horror moment took place in Redditch, Worcestershire last night, West Mercia Police has confirmed.

Officers were called to the scene after West Midlands Ambulance Service attended the address in Fownhope Close at around 2pm. No details on why WMAS were there have been given, but “significant concerns” were raised for the safety of a man who was said to have been in possession of a knife.

A police negotiator was then sent it, and attempts were made to resolve the situation by engaging with the man over several hours but – however officials confirmed that this move failed.

At approximately 7.40pm on Christmas Eve, the 39-year-old man was shot by armed police. Despite efforts by officers at the scene to save him, he was pronounced dead just after 8pm. The address was said to be empty bar the man at the 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 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.”

No details about the man apart from his age have been made public at this time. West Mercia Police has now made an immediate referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC).

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