David PalmerA man wielding a crossbow has died from “self-inflicted injuries” during a stand-off with police at a village pub.
Specialist officers and negotiators from Bedfordshire Police were called to the Chequers Inn in Wootton, near Bedford, at about 10:15 BST on Friday morning.
Shortly after emergency services arrived at the property in Hall End Road, a fire broke out – which completely destroyed the pub.
Police were informed the man had a crossbow and said “extensive efforts were made to ensure the safety of all at the scene”, with nearby homes being evacuated.
Bedfordshire Police said they had been called to “concerns for the welfare of a man”.
“At around 12:45, the man exited the premises before sustaining self-inflicted injuries,” they added.
He was taken to hospital and died there on Sunday.
His next of kin have been informed, and inquiries were continuing, the force said.
The incident has been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, as is automatic in cases like this.
Nicola Haseler/BBC
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