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Investigation finds Thames Valley Police used necessary force in Milton Keynes fatal shooting

Factual summary of a published IOPC investigation, covering the incident, key findings and outcome.

All IOPC reports
Published
2026-05-29
Investigation type
independent
Force involved
Thames Valley Police

What was investigated

An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) investigation examined the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting of a man at Milton Keynes Central railway station, where officers encountered a man armed with a knife. The investigation concluded that the use of lethal force by the firearms officer was necessary, proportionate, and reasonable.

Key findings

  • The use of lethal force was necessary, proportionate, and reasonable.
  • Officers were responding to reports of a man believed to be armed.
  • The officer believed there was an immediate threat to life.
  • No evidence indicated any officer behaved inappropriately.
  • Actions taken by officers were consistent with training and guidance.
  • Complaints regarding property handling were examined and found unsubstantiated.
  • Some officers did not activate body-worn video, contrary to policy.

Outcome

The investigation found no case to answer for misconduct or criminal proceedings against the officers involved, and it underscored the necessity of their actions in the rapidly evolving situation.

Read the full report on policeconduct.gov.uk

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Last reviewed: 13 July 2026 · Next review due: 13 January 2027

This is a factual summary of a report published by the Independent Office for Police Conduct. Individuals are referred to exactly as the source report anonymises them. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the IOPC · Summarised 2026-07-13.