Officers discharged their firearms during a fatal police incident in Thetford, resulting in the death of a man believed to be carrying a handgun, according to a regulatory body.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has initiated an investigation following the shooting that occurred when Norfolk Police responded to a two-vehicle collision on London Road, Thetford, around 20:25 GMT on Sunday.
On Monday, the IOPC confirmed that „two shots were fired by police shortly before 9pm,“ with what appears to be a non-police-issue firearm retrieved from the incident location.
The individual, thought to be in his sixties, was administered first aid at the scene but was pronounced dead shortly before 22:15.
Details of the Incident
The IOPC has confirmed that the man’s family has been informed of the occurrence. Upon arrival, Norfolk Police discovered a severely damaged Mercedes van involved in the collision; it was unoccupied and the airbag had deployed. A Honda Jazz was also present, exhibiting damage on one side. Its driver sustained minor injuries but opted against medical treatment.
Witnesses had reported seeing a man with a black handgun on London Road, moving toward a nearby Sainsbury’s store. This was noted while he was seen on the southbound lane of the A11, walking in a northbound direction.
Armed response teams arrived at the southbound carriageway and subsequently approached the man. Shortly thereafter, police shot him from a close range.
Official Statements
IOPC director Amanda Rowe remarked, „Fatal police shootings are rare; however, when such events occur, it is imperative that an independent inquiry is conducted into the actions and decisions of the officers involved. Our investigation is in its initial stages, and we are currently in the process of gathering and reviewing evidence to better understand the circumstances of this incident.“
Deputy Chief Constable Dave Marshall of Norfolk Police acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating, „This is a very serious matter; regrettably, a life has been lost, and I recognize that the public will seek clarity regarding the events that transpired. Nonetheless, we must maintain the integrity of the IOPC’s investigation to allow it to proceed and provide its assessment of the situation.“
He confirmed that the police department is fully cooperating with the IOPC, facilitating access to all relevant body-worn video recordings, emergency calls, and drone footage for a comprehensive investigation.
The IOPC was alerted shortly before 21:40, and investigators have begun collecting evidence, including acquiring preliminary statements from the officers involved. Police records and body-worn camera footage are also under review.
The A11, which was closed during the investigation, reopened northbound around 14:30 but remained closed southbound, with diversions in effect.
Images from the scene depict forensic officers conducting examinations of the affected area.
