Investigation underway after fatal police shooting in Coventry

We have begun an investigation after a man was fatally shot by West Midlands Police in Coventry last night (Friday 4 January).

31-year-old Sean Fitzgerald, from Coventry, was shot during a pre-planned police operation at a property on Burnaby Road at around 6.20pm. His next of kin has been informed. The post mortem will be held on Monday 7 January.

After being notified by West Midlands Police, our investigators were sent to the scene to gather evidence and oversee forensic examinations. We also attended the post incident procedures for officers to provide their initial accounts.

Our investigators will be in the area today (5 January) speaking to people who may have witnessed the incident. If anyone has information which could help with our investigation please contact [email protected].

Regional Director Amanda Rowe: “Our investigation is in its very early stages and we will be working hard to establish what happened. My thoughts are with the man’s family and all of those affected by this incident.

“The next steps will be to view the body worn video footage and establish if there are any local CCTV recordings. At this stage we are looking at the circumstances of the incident and all officers remain witnesses to our investigation.”

Ends

Notes to Editors:

Based on the evidence we have reviewed so far, including the body worn video footage – and contrary to reports – there is no indication the man was shot in the back.

This information was updated at 6.15pm on Saturday 5 January to confirm the man's name and the date of the post mortem.