Crossbow wielding man dies after stand-off with police over village pub fire

A man with a crossbow has died following a stand-off with police after a village pub was destroyed in a fire.

The force were called to Chequers pub, in Bedfordshire, on Friday night over concerns for the welfare of a man inside. Shortly after crews arrived at 10.15am a blaze broke out. Police were informed the man was holding the weapon and said "extensive efforts were made to ensure the safety of all at the scene", with nearby homes being evacuated.

The unnamed man was taken to hospital with "self-inflicted injuries" and died there on Sunday night. His next of kin have been informed. The incident has now been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct

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A police spokesperson said: “Following information that the individual was in possession of a crossbow, specialist officers, including negotiators, were deployed and extensive efforts were made to ensure the safety of all at the scene.

“At around 12.45pm, the man exited the premises before sustaining self-inflicted injuries. He was taken to hospital, where he died yesterday (Sunday). His next of kin have been informed.”

They added: "Enquiries are ongoing and the circumstances of the incident have been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in line with standard protocol."

Locals described the 44-yar-old boozer as a very warm and welcoming traditional country pub which served the community for years. It held a well known reputation for excellent home cooked food.