The Independent Office For Police Conduct (IOPC) has acted to quell rumours which have been, in part, shared in the mainstream media that 31-year-old Sea Fitzgerald was ‘shot in the back’ by Police during a recent pre-planned operation by West Midlands Police.
Many senior figures within the policing community, including Police Federation Boss John Apter, have commended the IOPC for acting so swiftly in order to stamp out rumours such as this.
In a tweet shared on the IOPC Twitter page, a spokesperson said:
“Our investigation into a fatal @WMPolice shooting in Coventry continues.
“The man who died was 31-year-old Sean Fitzgerald.
“Contrary to reports, based on the evidence we have so far (including body worn video) there is no indication he was shot in the back.”
In an update, a spokesperson for West Midlands Police confirmed:
‘West Midlands Police is continuing to assist an Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation into an armed operation in Coventry.
‘A 31-year-old man was shot dead by firearms police during the intelligence-led operation in Burnaby Road at around 6.20pm on Friday (4 January).
‘This is being investigated by the IOPC who have said based on the evidence received so far, including body worn footage – and contrary to reports – there is no indication the man was shot in the back.
‘Police have bailed a 26-year-old man arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the production of cannabis and released another man, also 26, under investigation as enquiries continue.’
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