Man injured after armed police discharge firearms in Eastville, Bristol
Force has made a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct
A man in his forties has been taken to hospital with injuries after armed police discharged their firearms at an address in Eastville, Bristol.
Avon and Somerset Police said it has made a referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The man remains in a stable condition in hospital, with injuries not currently believed to be life-threatening.
Armed officers were responding to a report from a member of the public who saw what they believed to be a firearm at an address in Fishponds Road.
The 999 call came in just before 5.30pm on Thursday 22nd October.
Police said negotiators had not yet arrived when the firearms were discharged.
The man was immediately treated at the scene by paramedics and was conscious and breathing when he was taken to hospital.
The force said it has not yet been able to trace his next of kin.
No officers were injured and police said they do not believe there is any wider risk to the public.
No arrests have been made.
Police said support is in place or will be offered to everyone involved.
A cordon remains at the address in Fishponds Road while enquiries continue.
Police response
Superintendent Matt Ebbs said: "A mandatory referral to the IOPC is always made when someone is seriously injured following police contact. We will co-operate with the IOPC to ensure transparency over our actions and decisions."
Superintendent Ebbs said: "The role of our firearms officers is incredibly challenging, and they are rigorously trained, tested and held to the highest standards. They are deployed when a significant risk to the public or to officers' safety has been identified."
Superintendent Ebbs said: "This type of incident, while very rare, is distressing. We'll have an increased high-visibility police presence in the area over the coming days. I'd urge anyone with any concerns to engage with our officers on patrol."