Man in Critical Condition After Police Shooting in London

Independent investigation launched after armed standoff in Walthamstow leaves one man injured and hospitalized.

A man was hospitalized in a life-threatening condition after being shot by police at a home in Walthamstow, northeast London, on Friday afternoon. The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation into the Metropolitan Police’s actions during the tense standoff.

Emergency Call Sparks Police Response
According to officials, family members of the man called 999 at around 10 a.m., reporting that he was inside a property armed with a gun and threatening to harm himself. Police negotiators and armed officers were immediately deployed to the scene, where they remained for several hours in an attempt to de-escalate the situation peacefully.

Four Hour Standoff Before Shots Fired
For about four hours, officers tried to communicate with the man, who allegedly made threats to harm anyone who entered the home and to shoot himself. Around 2 p.m., officers reportedly heard a loud bang from inside the property, prompting them to enter by force. Upon entry, “weapons were discharged,” a police spokesperson confirmed. The sequence of events leading to the gunfire is now part of an active investigation.

Man’s Condition Described as Life Changing

The man was treated at the scene by police medics and the London Ambulance Service before being rushed to hospital. Initially described as being in a life-threatening state, his condition later stabilized and was reclassified as “non-life-threatening but life-changing.” Authorities said he remains hospitalized as investigations continue.

Public Safety Measures and Area Lockdown
Police established cordons around the area to keep the public safe and urged residents to stay clear while forensic work and evidence gathering continued. Officials stressed that the incident was contained and posed no wider threat to the community.

Independent Watchdog Begins Inquiry
The Metropolitan Police Directorate of Professional Standards referred the case to the IOPC, which confirmed that an independent investigation had been launched. An IOPC spokesperson said, “We have started an independent investigation into the actions of the Metropolitan Police during an incident at an address in Walthamstow where a man was shot and taken to hospital. Our investigation is in its very early stages.”

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Senior Police Official Responds to Concerns
Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist addressed public concern following the shooting. “Our thoughts at this time are with the injured man and his family,” he said. “I know this news will be concerning for the community in Walthamstow and the wider public in London. However, incidents where officers discharge their firearms are incredibly rare.”

Police Defend Officers’ Actions
Twist also expressed gratitude toward armed officers who face dangerous situations daily. “Armed officers respond to around 4,000 calls a year, placing themselves in danger to protect others. They make split-second decisions in incredibly difficult and challenging circumstances, and I am grateful for their professionalism and bravery,” he added.

Investigation to Determine Circumstances
The IOPC’s findings will determine whether police actions were proportionate and justified under the circumstances. Authorities have urged patience as the investigation continues, promising transparency once all facts are established.

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