A man who was fatally shot by police after reports of him carrying a firearm at Milton Keynes Central station was found to be in possession of a knife, Thames Valley Police (TVP) have confirmed.
The incident unfolded at approximately 12:55 BST on Tuesday when officers responded to reports of a man believed to be armed at the Elder Gate entrance of the station. Following police intervention, a single shot was discharged.
Despite immediate medical attention, including what a police spokesperson described as “life-saving actions,” the man was pronounced dead at 13:44.
TVP later clarified that the individual had been carrying a knife rather than a firearm. According to the force, the man had “moved at speed towards officers” with the weapon, prompting the armed response.
“TVP armed officers responded and challenged a white man who was carrying a knife outside the station,” the police stated in an official release on Tuesday.
In line with standard procedure following a fatal police shooting, the force has referred the matter to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) for further investigation.
Milton Keynes police commander, Chief Superintendent Emma Baillie, addressed public concern following the incident, stating: “We understand that this incident may cause concern locally, but we would like to reassure the community that there is no wider risk to the public.”
Eyewitnesses described the scene as tense and chaotic. Several bystanders reported hearing shouting between the suspect and officers, with the man allegedly refusing to comply with commands to drop to the ground.
Hever Marin, a witness at the scene, said he heard a “very loud” gunshot and labelled the experience “distressing”.
The incident has drawn reaction from local leaders. Shazna Muzammil, councillor and Conservative group leader at Milton Keynes City Council, expressed her concern, saying the situation was “really shocking”.
“I really hope that everyone feels a bit safer knowing the police and emergency services have stepped up in support of residents and passengers,” she said.
Matthew Barber, Thames Valley’s Police and Crime Commissioner, commended the officers for their swift response: “It is tragic that a man died in yesterday’s incident, but I am thankful to the police officers who responded bravely and acted decisively in order to protect the public. If they had not done so the outcome could have been much worse.”
Thames Valley Police have urged the public not to circulate videos or speculate on the details online as investigations continue.
A significant police presence remains at Milton Keynes Central as of Wednesday. While London Northwestern Railway confirmed that train services are running as normal, commuters have been advised that the station may be busier than usual.
Pedestrians have also been warned of limited access routes to the station, with some taxi and bus services affected due to restricted access at Station Square.
A gunman was shot dead by armed police at Milton Keynes Central Train Station today.
This is the alleged video of the aftermath. pic.twitter.com/WRKgBOL5VZ
— Bob Rich (@ShitMcShitface) April 1, 2025
