Roy Blackman murder: man shot dead in police operation

A man has been shot dead in a planned police operation in Kent.

A police spokesman confirmed that armed officers when to an address in Smiths Lane Goudhurst at 8.30pm on May 1. The operation was part of the investigation into the murder of 73-year-old Roy Blackman.

The pensioner died from multiple blunt force injuries at his home in Headcorn Road, Biddenden, Kent, on 21st March after burglars stole his safe.

Formal identification of the dead man has yet to take place but the family of a man detectives wanted to question have been informed.

The incident has been referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission. A spokesman said that tests are being carried out on what appears to be a non-police firearm found at the scene, and forensic examinations will continue throughout the day.