Investigation underway after man shot dead by police in Swindon

The "terrible incident" took place in the early hours of Sunday 8 November.

Author: Matt HutchinsonPublished 9th Nov 2020

An investigation has started, after a man was fatally shot by police in Swindon.

Officers were called to Summers Street just after 2:00 GMT on Sunday 8 November, after reports of two men shouting in the road.

The 57-year-old was declared dead in an ambulance at 2:56 GMT.

A Wiltshire force spokesperson said: "We can confirm that following an incident in Summers Street, Swindon ... a referral has been made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).

"This is regarding the death of a member of the public.

"The IOPC are independently investigating this incident so it would be inappropriate for us to comment any further on it.

"We would, however, like to reassure the public there is no risk to the wider community and that there is likely to be an increased police presence in the area for a considerable time".

'Our thoughts and sympathies are with all those affected'

According to the IOPC, conducting an independent investigation is mandatory when police fatally shoot a member of the public.

On Sunday 8 November, a spokesperson for the police watchdog added: "Our thoughts and sympathies are with all of those affected by this terrible incident.

"IOPC investigators are at the scene, and the post incident procedures where the key police witnesses will provide their initial accounts.

"We have established protocols with the police to ensure our investigations do not hinder their ability to conduct enquiries as part of their related investigations".

'Distress and anxiety within our communities'

The Chief Constable for Wiltshire Police also responded on Monday 9 November.

Kier Pritchard said: "I know that yesterday’s incident in Swindon will continue to cause distress and anxiety within our communities and many people will have questions about what happened.

"I appreciate that it is in the public’s interest that the facts are made available when appropriate.

"I would urge caution when reading information relating to the incident on social media – the IOPC will keep the public updated on the case as and when they are able".

The CC has spoken to every member of the force involved in the incident, claiming that they will "continue to receive the appropriate welfare support".

He also thanked residents on Summers Street, for giving "officers the time and space to conduct thorough enquiries".