Thames Valley Police have issued an update on social media following a fatal shooting in Milton Keynes
In a statement on social media, police say; “Our officers and those from British Transport Police were called to reports of a man carrying a firearm at the station on Elder Gate at 12.55pm this afternoon.
“Our armed officers responded and challenged a white man who was carrying a knife outside the station. He moved at speed towards officers with the knife before a shot was fired by police.
“Life-saving actions were immediately taken at the scene, but the man was pronounced dead at 1.44pm. We have not yet informed the man’s next of kin so has not been formally identified.
“We understand that this incident may cause concern locally, but we would like to reassure the community that there is no wider risk to the public.
“We have made a mandatory referral to Independent Office for Police Conduct, and they will be carrying out an independent investigation into this incident. Please do not to share footage or speculate about other details online.
“Officers remain at the scene, which is covering a large area outside the train station. However, the station remains open and trains are running as usual. There is disruption to the bus station and taxi rank outside the station as this area is currently part of the scene. Please seek alternative travel arrangements and check before you travel.”
Matthew Barber (Police & Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley) has issued the below statement following a fatal shooting in Milton Keynes yesterday (1/4).
Matthew Barber said: “Early yesterday afternoon Thames Valley Police received a report of a man carrying a gun at Milton Keynes railway station. When challenged, the man moved at speed towards officers with a knife and was shot by the police.
“Despite attempts by police officers to provide life-saving first aid the man was pronounced dead at the scene. Whilst this is of course a shocking incident there is no ongoing risk to the public.
“Of course it is right that the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) review this incident, but from what I understand at this early stage I am confident that the officers should be praised for their actions to protect members of the public.
“As a society we ask the police to put themselves in harm’s way every single day on our behalf, most of those officers are unarmed. The small number of armed officers often face even greater risks and carry a still greater responsibility. Whilst it is right that yesterday’s incident is independently reviewed, it is important that we also recognise exactly what we are asking of our armed police officers.
“It is tragic that a man died in yesterday’s incident, but I am thankful to the police officers who responded bravely and acted decisively in order to protect the public. If they had not done so the outcome could have been much worse.”
