Two armed officers discharged their weapons after identifying a possible imminent threat to a child.

An IOPC investigation is under way after a man was shot dead by armed officers in Cumbria during a "tragic" domestic incident. 

Cumbria Constabulary made a mandatory referral after a 40-year-old man died in the Botcherby area on December 19.

Shortly after 3.30pm, officers were called to a domestic property where it was reported a man was making threats to kill and young children were present.

Armed and unarmed officers entered the property, with initial accounts reporting that they identified a possible imminent threat to a child once inside.

Two armed officers discharged their weapons; the man suffered injuries to his head and chest and was pronounced dead at around 4.15pm.

A knife was recovered at the scene. A post-mortem took place on December 20.

Initial accounts have been obtained from 11 officers, while investigators have begun the process of reviewing the evidence - including body-worn video.

IOPC Regional Director Catherine Bates said: “This was a tragic incident and our thoughts are with all those affected. While police shootings are, thankfully, rare it is understandable that people will be concerned by recent events.

“This was an isolated incident and our independent investigation will be thorough to ensure we understand the circumstances that have led to a man losing his life.

“We have met with the man’s family to explain our role and will be updating them as the investigation progresses.”