Branch statement after shooting in Redditch on Christmas Eve

27 December 2024

West Mercia Police Federation is supporting officers after a man was shot by armed police in Redditch on Christmas Eve.

Branch representatives were called out as part of the Post Incident Procedure.

They spent a number of hours supporting the members on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Branch chair Steve Butler said the support will continue through the investigations and coronial processes that may follow.

He added: “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by this incident.

“A number of officers were involved in the incident and support is in place for them, from the Force and Federation.

Incident

“As the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the incident we will not be able to comment further at this time.”

West Mercia Police made an immediate referral to the IOPC following the incident.

Officers were called by West Midlands Ambulance Service to an address in Fownhope Close at around 2pm after concerns were raised for the safety of a man who was in possession of a knife.

A police negotiator responded, and attempts were made to resolve the situation by engaging with the man over several hours but, at approximately 7.40pm, a 39-year-old man was shot by armed police.

Despite best efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead just after 8pm.

Shock

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.”

IOPC director of operations Steve Noonan said: “Given a man has died after being shot by police, our role is to independently investigate all the circumstances surrounding this incident including the actions and decisions taken by officers. While police shootings are thankfully rare, it is understandable that people will be concerned when it does happen, and it is important we conduct a detailed and robust investigation into what took place. Our enquiries are in their very early stages.”

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