A man has been left with serious injuries after being shot by armed police in the village of Hollingbourne, Kent, on Monday evening. The incident occurred near the Park Gate Inn, a well-known establishment in the quiet rural community, drawing significant emergency service activity, including a bomb disposal unit.
The events unfolded just before 9pm on 7 July, after Kent Police officers arrived in Hollingbourne to execute an arrest warrant. According to official statements, police had intended to apprehend a suspect at an address in the area at around 7.15pm. During the operation, a firearm was discharged by a police officer, causing what have been described as “life-changing” injuries to the man, who is in his 30s. He was promptly transported to a London hospital where medical staff continue to treat him.
The deployment of a bomb disposal team added a layer of urgency and concern, though authorities have since confirmed that the wider public was not at risk from explosives. Police later assured local residents that the area surrounding the Park Gate Inn was rendered safe by specialists. Whether any suspicious or dangerous materials were actually recovered at the scene has not been detailed, but the incident sparked a thorough investigation and a significant emergency services presence.
Shortly after the shooting, the Ashford Road (A20) near Leeds Castle was closed at approximately 8.45pm on Monday evening, creating disruption for motorists and residents alike. The heavy police activity and subsequent road closures lasted into the night as inquiries continued and evidence was gathered.
Officials were keen to clarify that this incident is not being treated as terror-related. The statement, aimed at reassuring the public, indicated there is no ongoing threat to the community.
Given the police use of a firearm, the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) quickly announced the launch of an independent investigation. Representatives from the watchdog confirmed they were notified by Kent Police soon after the incident unfolded and declared a full inquiry within a matter of hours. IOPC investigators have since been present at both the scene and during post-incident procedures, collecting initial statements and evidence.
A spokesperson for the IOPC commented: “We have begun an independent investigation after a man was shot and seriously injured by Kent Police, who were responding to an incident on Monday July 7. Our investigation is in the very early stages. We have sent investigators to the scene and are working closely with the relevant authorities to establish the full circumstances.”
Kent Police reiterated their support for the investigation, stating: “Kent Police attended an address in Hollingbourne, Maidstone to conduct an arrest at approximately 7.15pm on Monday, July 7, 2025. While at the scene, a firearm was discharged by a police officer. A man sustained injuries believed to be life-changing and was taken to a London hospital where he remains receiving treatment. Shortly afterwards the IOPC declared an independent investigation, which Kent Police is supporting.”
The presence of both armed officers and bomb disposal experts has inevitably led to speculation and concern amongst the local community, with officials striving to provide reassurance. In the coming days, attention will focus on the findings of the IOPC probe, as well as updates on the condition of the injured man. Meanwhile, local residents and businesses near the Park Gate Inn are attempting to return to normal life following Monday night’s dramatic developments.
This incident underscores the complexities and risks faced by police during arrests involving potentially dangerous individuals, as well as the robust oversight mechanisms that activate following the use of deadly force. The full picture of what took place will likely emerge as investigators continue their work in the days ahead.