Gun Threat Sparks Massive Police Operation
Armed officers swooped on a Stow Crescent address in Walthamstow at 10am today after reports of a man with a firearm making chilling threats to kill. The tense stand-off lasted for hours, with police negotiators desperately trying to defuse the situation.
Police Forced Entry and Fired Shots
After four hours, around 2pm, officers had "reason to enter the property by force." Shots were fired as the man was confronted inside. Police treated him at the scene before he was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries.
Investigation Underway with IOPC Involved
Police discovered what they believe was a gun inside the house. The area remains cordoned off as the investigation unfolds. The Met confirmed the incident is now being reviewed by professional standards and passed on to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
A Met Police spokesperson said: "The incident is contained and there is no wider threat to the public. We urge residents to avoid the area while officers carry out their investigations."
