MAN SHOT DEAD BY POLICE
DAD-OF-FOUR KILLED IN ROY BLACKMAN MURDER HUNT
A man being hunted as part of a murder investigation was shot dead after armed police swooped on a quiet village.
Neighbours heard gunfire break out in Smiths Lane, Goudhurst, on Sunday night, with one saying they heard five shots in quick succession.
Specific details of what happened in the property have not been revealed, but a non-police firearm was recovered from the scene.
The planned raid followed a police appeal to track down William Smith, in connection with the violent killing of Biddenden pensioner, Roy Blackman, in March.
It came three days after murder detectives released Mr Smith’s mugshot, asking for information about his whereabouts but urging people not to approach him.
Claims that the 36-year-old, known as Billy, had previously been arrested and bailed during the murder investigation are yet to be confirmed.
Smiths Lane was cordoned off for several days while forensics officers examined the area – an orchard where a mobile home is situated, flanked by hedgerows and trees.
Neighbours have spoken of their shock at the dramatic events which unfolded in the Weald village from 8.30pm that night.
Photographer and designer Michael Bennett, 61, from Goudhurst, said: “The first I knew of it was when the police and media started gathering. I’ve heard that there were several shots followed by automatic fire with an interval between them.
“It is quite shocking to know this has happened within earshot of where you live. But it won’t shake my faith in the area because this is a safe place to live and this is a one off.
“My son had friends over for a sleepover at the time. The thought this happened so close by is sobering.”
A neighbour, who did not want to be named, said: “I heard about five bangs, one after the other.
“They must have been loud because I was indoors and could hear them over the telly. I thought it must have been people out shooting rabbits.”
The incident was referred to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC), which is mandatory for all police shootings.
A spokesman for the body said: “After being notified by Kent Police, IPCC investigators deployed to the scene to oversee post incident procedures.
“Tests are being carried out on what appears to be a non-police firearm found at the scene.”
Ian Pointon, chairman of Kent Police Federation, has pledged to support the officers involved during the course of the independent investigation, adding: “Police firearms officers perform a difficult and extremely responsible role on behalf of society.”