Man Shot Dead by Armed Police After Knife Threat in Cumbria
Armed officers rushed to a Borland Avenue address in Botcherby, Carlisle, just after 3.30pm on Monday, December 19. They were called to reports of a man allegedly threatening people with a knife.
At the scene, police found 40-year-old Sergii Kuzmenko armed with a knife. A police firearm was discharged shortly after, leaving Kuzmenko fatally injured. A force spokesperson confirmed, “At this time, it is believed that no other members of the public were injured during this incident.”
Police Launch Full Investigation After Shooting
Following the shooting, Cumbria Constabulary established a cordon and bolstered police presence around Botcherby to reassure local residents. The force immediately referred the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which opened a thorough investigation.
The IOPC revealed two days later that officers — both armed and unarmed — entered the property after reports the man was threatening to kill and young children were present. “Once inside, officers identified a possible threat to a child and two armed officers discharged their weapons,” their statement said.
Kuzmenko sustained head and chest injuries, with a knife recovered from the property. The IOPC is reviewing bodycam footage and has taken statements from 11 officers involved so far.
Inquest into Death Paused Pending Investigation
On December 20, a post-mortem took place, and Carlisle assistant coroner Robert Cohen opened an inquest this morning. “The circumstances indicate that Mr Kuzmenko sustained a fatal gunshot injury during a police investigation,” Cohen stated.
However, the inquest has been temporarily suspended awaiting the outcome of the ongoing independent IOPC inquiry.
Cohen also confirmed the victim’s identity after reviewing evidence from Detective Chief Inspector Patrick McDonnell.
IOPC Vows Thorough Probe Amid Community Concern
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, we understand public alarm over this event.”
She added, “This isolated incident is under our independent and thorough investigation to understand fully how this man lost his life. We have met with the family to explain our role and will keep them updated as the inquiry progresses.”
