An investigation has been launched after armed police shot and killed a man in Bedford following an overnight standoff. Bedfordshire Police said officers were called to Aylesbury Road at around 10.40pm on Monday following reports of vehicle damage.
Upon arrival, officers found a man in his 40s who had barricaded himself inside a property and was making threats. Specialist armed officers, negotiators and other emergency services attended the scene, and nearby residents were evacuated as a precaution.
Despite sustained efforts to engage with the man over several hours, Bedfordshire Police said he presented a weapon shortly after 9.30am on Tuesday, prompting officers to fire. The man was treated at the scene but died approximately an hour later.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has been notified and has launched an investigation, as is mandatory in any police shooting. A force spokesperson confirmed the man's next of kin have been informed and are being supported.
A postmortem examination will be carried out to determine the cause of death, and the Bedfordshire coroner has been informed. Police have assured the public there is no ongoing risk.
