National recommendations - National Police Chiefs Council, September 2020

Published 10 Dec 2020
Investigation

In March 2019, police officers from West Midlands Police’s Firearms Operations Unit assisted in the execution of a Section 8 Police And Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) search warrant, following a Public Protection Unit (PPU) investigation. Firearms officers gained access to the property using a set of keys. The chain was across the door and they used an enforcer to force entry. The occupant of the address was in a bedroom opposite officers. He was stood, wrapped in a duvet, concealing his right hand. Officers called for the occupant to exit and show his hands. He did not comply. Officers continued to negotiate with the occupant who further refused to comply with officer commands. A Firearms Support Dog was requested. Upon approaching the door, the dog barked. The occupant removed the duvet he was wrapped in and quickly raised his right hand and moved towards officers. A single shot was fired by officers, striking the occupant in the upper right chest. First-aid was provided and an ambulance requested. Ambulance crews attended however the occupant was pronounced deceased at the scene. A non-police firearm was recovered from the address.

 

IOPC reference

2019/116923
Date of recommendation
Date response due

Recommendations