On Christmas Eve, armed police shot and killed a 39-year-old knifeman in Worcestershire after a five-hour standoff. The incident took place at an address in Redditch, where police were called by the West Midlands Ambulance Service after concerns were raised for the man's safety. The police made several attempts over several hours to resolve the situation, but ultimately had to resort to using lethal force. The force has made an immediate referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for an investigation. The incident is likely to cause shock and concern in the local community.