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A man in his 30s who was shot and seriously injured by Kent Police officers in Hollingbourne had an outstanding arrest warrant, the force has confirmed. The incident, which unfolded opposite the Park Gate Inn on the A20 Ashford Road, is now under independent investigation by the IOPC.
Emergency services, including British Army bomb disposal experts, responded to the high-risk incident shortly after 7.15pm on Monday evening (7 July). The man, who has not yet been publicly named, was shot by firearms officers and remains in a London hospital receiving treatment for life-changing injuries.
Arrest Operation Escalates
According to Kent Police, officers had attended the address to carry out an arrest in relation to a non-terrorism related warrant. Additional specialist units, including armed police, were called in to assist.
“On Monday 7 July 2025, Kent Police officers attended a property in Ashford Road, Hollingbourne, near Maidstone to conduct an arrest for an outstanding warrant,” a police spokesperson said.
“This was not related to any terrorism offences. During the incident a man in his 30s was shot by officers and was subsequently taken to hospital.”
Bomb Squad Makes Area Safe
A unit from the British Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal team was called to the scene amid concerns for public safety. Officers confirmed that the bomb squad “made the area safe”, though no explosives were ultimately found.
The A20 Ashford Road remains closed between Chegworth Road and B2163 Penfold Hill as evidence gathering continues.
IOPC Launches Independent Investigation
As is protocol following a police shooting, Kent Police referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC), which confirmed this morning it had launched a formal inquiry.
“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 7 July,” an IOPC spokesperson said.
“We have sent investigators to the scene and the police post-incident procedure to begin gathering evidence. Our investigation is in the very early stages.”
Park Gate Inn Confirms No Involvement
The Park Gate Inn, located directly across from the incident, was briefly closed while officers secured the area. The pub released a statement confirming no connection to the police operation:
“We want to reassure everyone that nothing happened in the pub itself – all our team are safe and well. We’re simply following guidance to ensure everyone’s safety.”
This is a developing story. Stay with us for the latest updates from Kent Police, IOPC, and local authorities.
