A man has been shot dead by armed police in Thetford after officers responded to reports of a two-vehicle collision and a suspect believed to be carrying a handgun, Norfolk police have confirmed.
Officers were called to London Road in Thetford at around 8.25pm on Sunday following reports of a collision involving two vehicles. According to police, a man believed to be the driver of one of the vehicles left the scene on foot while holding what witnesses described as a handgun.
Due to the reported presence of a firearm, armed response officers were deployed to the area as a precaution.
Suspect shot a short distance away
Police said the man was located a short distance from the crash site and was subsequently shot by officers. Despite the efforts of emergency services at the scene, he was pronounced dead shortly afterwards.
No other injuries were reported in connection with the incident, and officers said they are not seeking anyone else in relation to the events.
Major road closure remains in place
The A11 remains closed in both directions between the Thetford Ranges roundabout and the Brandon Road roundabout while emergency services and investigators continue work at the scene. Motorists have been advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.
Independent investigation launched
As with all fatal police shootings in England and Wales, the incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which will carry out an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the use of force.
David Buckley, assistant chief constable at Norfolk Police, said police recognised the concern such incidents cause within local communities.
Police stress rarity of firearms use
Buckley said armed officers respond to hundreds of firearms-related incidents each year, but the discharge of police firearms remains extremely rare. He said a full and transparent investigation was already under way and confirmed that body-worn camera footage and emergency call recordings would be handed to investigators.
He added that police were working closely with oversight bodies to establish the full sequence of events and reassure the public.
Firearms incidents remain rare in UK
Police shootings are uncommon in the UK due to strict firearms controls and the fact that most officers do not routinely carry guns. Every fatal police shooting is automatically investigated independently to ensure accountability and public confidence.
Police have urged anyone with information or concerns to follow official updates as the investigation progresses.
