Full Breakdown
Man Shot Dead by Police Following Thetford Car Crash
12/29/2025, 11:12:51 PM
Incident Overview
A man was shot and killed by police following a two-vehicle collision in Thetford, Norfolk, on Sunday, December 28, 2025. Norfolk Police received reports of the crash on London Road at approximately 8:25 PM GMT. The man, believed to be the driver of one of the vehicles, reportedly left the scene holding what was described as a handgun. Armed response officers were dispatched and shot the suspect a short distance away. Despite emergency services' efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation and Response
Norfolk Police confirmed that they are not seeking any additional suspects in connection with the incident. The police have referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which is standard procedure following police shootings. Assistant Chief Constable David Buckley stated that incidents involving police firearms are rare and emphasized the importance of transparency, noting that the police would cooperate fully with the IOPC investigation by providing body-worn footage and 999 call recordings.
Community Impact
The incident has raised concerns within the local community. Buckley acknowledged these concerns, stating, “We understand this incident will cause concern in the community. Our highly trained armed officers deploy to hundreds of firearms-related calls each year, but incidents where police discharge firearms are thankfully incredibly rare.” The A11 road remains closed in both directions from the Thetford Ranges roundabout to the Brandon Road roundabout as investigations continue.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses reported hearing a woman scream about a man with a gun shortly after the crash. One local resident recounted seeing multiple armed response vehicles and ambulances at the scene, describing the atmosphere as tense. Another witness noted that the man was lying on the ground, and emergency personnel were attempting to revive him.
Official Statements
The IOPC has initiated an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. A spokesperson for the IOPC confirmed that they were notified shortly after the incident and have begun gathering evidence. The investigation is still in its early stages, and further details regarding the crash and subsequent shooting are expected to emerge as inquiries progress.
Conclusion
The shooting of the man following the car crash in Thetford has prompted a thorough investigation by both the police and the IOPC. As the community grapples with the implications of this incident, authorities are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the investigative process.
