An independent investigation has been launched after a man in his 60s was shot dead by police in Norfolk on Sunday evening. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed that two shots were fired by officers shortly before 9pm following reports of a man brandishing a handgun.
The incident began when two vehicles collided on London Road in Thetford at around 8.25pm. The driver of one vehicle, believed to be the deceased man, left the scene holding what was described as a handgun. Armed response officers were deployed and found the man near the A11 shortly afterwards.
Police provided first aid at the scene, but the man was declared deceased shortly before 10.15pm. A non-police-issue firearm was recovered, and tests are under way to determine if it was a lethal weapon or a replica. The IOPC said it has secured body-worn video footage and taken initial accounts from officers.
Amanda Rowe, IOPC director, said: “Fatal police shootings are rare, however when they do occur it’s essential that an independent investigation is carried out into the actions and decision-making of the officers involved.” Norfolk Assistant Chief Constable David Buckley added: “Incidents where police discharge firearms are thankfully incredibly rare. A full and independent investigation is already under way.”
