In a tragic Christmas Eve incident, Marcus Meade, 39, was fatally shot by armed police during a five-hour standoff in Redditch, Worcestershire. The incident occurred at a property on Fownhope Close, where concerns had been raised about the safety of a man armed with a knife.
The Standoff and Shooting
Police arrived at the address at approximately 2pm on 24 December. Despite extended negotiations, events escalated, and at around 8pm, Mr Meade was pronounced dead after being shot by armed officers. A single gunshot struck him in the chest, and despite immediate first aid efforts, he succumbed to his injuries 20 minutes later.
Ring doorbell footage released by Mr Meade’s family captured the tense moments outside the property. The video shows officers standing near the address, followed by the sound of a dozen loud bangs and visible white flashes as officers used distraction devices. Mr Meade is not visible in the footage when he is fatally wounded.
Doorbell video footage has recorded armed police fatally shooting a man on Christmas Eve
Amid community calls for answers, the family of Marcus Meade has given the BBC permission to publish the clip showing loud bangs and flashes at an address on Fownhope Close in Redditch,… pic.twitter.com/8HD1qYCLs0— Uncensored News (@Uncensorednewsw) December 31, 2024
Tributes to a Local Hero
Marcus Meade, a father of two, was remembered as a well-respected member of the community. In 2003, he was awarded a bravery commendation for subduing Inderjit Kainth, who had fatally stabbed 16-year-old Rosie Ross in Birmingham.
His brother, Jahziah Meade, described him as “a phenomenal brother and a great friend,” adding, “He couldn’t do enough to help everybody. He has two beautiful children, and we are all truly devastated. There’s an empty hole left in all of our hearts.”
A Gofundme campaign launched by Jahziah to cover funeral expenses has raised nearly £7,000.
Police Watchdog Investigation Underway
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has launched an investigation to examine the circumstances surrounding Mr Meade’s death. The watchdog confirmed that distraction devices and a taser were deployed before an officer fired the fatal shot.
Regional Director Derrick Campbell stated, “Our thoughts and sympathies remain with Mr Meade’s family. We are committed to a thorough investigation to uncover the full details of this tragic incident.”
The IOPC is reviewing body-worn camera footage and assessing whether police tactics and risk assessments adhered to relevant policies. A post-mortem has been completed, and toxicology tests are ongoing.
Community Response and Ongoing Enquiries
West Mercia Police has deferred commenting on the case while the IOPC investigation is active. Meanwhile, community members have expressed their condolences and called for transparency in the inquiry.
This tragic event has left a lasting impact on Mr Meade’s family and the Redditch community. As the investigation unfolds, questions about police decision-making and strategy will remain at the forefront.
