The Independent Office for Police Conduct has confirmed that a gas-powered air gun was recovered from the scene where a man was shot dead by armed officers in Norfolk last month.
Chronology of a Fatal Night
The incident began on the evening of December 28, when police were called to London Road in Thetford following reports of a collision between a car and a Mercedes van at approximately 8.25pm. Witnesses subsequently reported seeing a man brandishing what appeared to be a handgun at a girl before he fled the scene, running through a nearby housing estate.
Armed officers located the man, identified as 61-year-old Tony Keeble from Thetford, shortly before 9pm. He was walking in a northbound direction on the southbound carriageway of the A11 dual carriageway. The IOPC stated that Mr Keeble was ordered to drop his weapon twice before officers fired a single shot.
Weapon Identified as Air Gun
Mr Keeble was pronounced dead at the scene. Initial reports indicated a non-police issue firearm was recovered. In a recent update, the IOPC clarified the nature of the weapon. "We understand that the weapon recovered from the scene was a gas-powered air gun," a spokesperson said.
A post-mortem examination gave Mr Keeble's provisional cause of death as gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen.
Independent Investigation Underway
IOPC Director Amanda Rowe acknowledged the incident's impact, stating: "We understand that any incident of this nature is likely to cause public concern, particularly in the local Norfolk community." She emphasised the importance of a "robust and thorough independent investigation" to establish the full circumstances.
The investigation remains in its early stages, with evidence still being gathered and reviewed. The IOPC has contacted Mr Keeble's family to explain its role and provide updates. The family has requested privacy and asked that the media not contact them during this difficult time.
