Dramatic Siege in Stow Crescent
Police were scrambled to a tense scene in Stow Crescent, Walthamstow, at around 10am on Friday, 10 October. Family members dialled 999, warning that a man inside the property was armed and threatening to harm himself. He was reportedly alone at the time.
Hours of Negotiation End in Gunfire
Officers and skilled negotiators spent hours trying to resolve the standoff peacefully. The man threatened to shoot anyone attempting to enter and to take his own life. Around 2pm, after hearing a loud bang from inside, armed officers moved in. Shots were fired as they entered. Details of what led up to the discharge of weapons are now under investigation.
Injured Man Treated and Hospitalised
The man was treated at the scene by police medics and paramedics from the London Ambulance Service before being rushed to hospital. His injuries are serious but not life-threatening. He remains in hospital with life-changing wounds.
Police Respond and Investigate
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist said: "Our thoughts are with the injured man and his family. We understand this news will alarm the community in Walthamstow and across London. But incidents involving firearms discharge by officers are extremely rare. "It is crucial that the circumstances are fully examined by the Independent Office for Police Conduct, who are leading the investigation. Until this process is complete, it is inappropriate to comment further. "Armed officers face dangerous situations every day, responding to 4,000 calls a year, making split-second decisions to protect the public. I thank them for their bravery and professionalism. "Officers remain on scene, and we thank local residents for their cooperation. The cordon remains in place. The incident is contained and there is no wider risk to the public."
The Directorate of Professional Standards referred the case to the IOPC, who declared an independent investigation is underway. Authorities urge the public to avoid the area while the cordons are still in place.
