A 61-year-old man with a handgun who was shot dead by armed police following a car crash in Norfolk has been named.
Tony Keeble from Thetford was shot in the chest and the abdomen after a car crash on London Road at around 8.25pm on Sunday, December 28.
Armed officers arrived at the scene at around 9pm amid reports that a man had been seen with a handgun, and had left.
They found Mr Keeble on the side of the A11 and ordered him to drop his weapon twice. Shortly later, two officer fired a single shot, which struck the man.
First aid was carried out at the scene, and an ambulance was called, however, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
A firearm, which appeared not to be police-issued, was recovered from the scene, the IOPC said.
Initial statements have been given by the officers present, the watchdog said. Further statements will be taken as part of the probe.
All police officers are currently being treated as witnesses at this stage as there is ‘no indication’ so far that policing standards of professional behaviour were breached, the IOPC added.
IOPC Director Amanda Rowe said: ‘We understand that any incident of this nature is likely to cause public concern, particularly in the local Norfolk community, with questions about the circumstances surrounding this event.
Officers were called to London Road (pictured) at around 8.25pm on Sunday after receiving reports of a two-vehicle collision
‘That’s why it’s important that we carry out a robust and thorough independent investigation.
‘Our investigation remains in its early stages and we are still gathering and reviewing evidence as we work to establish the full circumstances.
‘Our sympathies remain with everyone affected by this incident.
‘We have contacted Mr Keeble’s family and will be meeting with them to explain our role and ensure they are kept updated as our investigation progresses.
‘They have asked for privacy and request that media do not contact them at this very difficult time.’
This is a breaking news story. Updates to follow.
