A man was shot dead by police after “presenting a weapon” during an armed standoff in Bedford. Bedfordshire Police said officers were called to reports of vehicles being damaged in Aylesbury Road, shortly after 10.40pm on Monday.

A man in his 40s was found “barricaded” inside a property and “making threats”, the force said. Shortly after 9.30am on Tuesday, the man “presented a weapon before police fired”. The force has made a mandatory referral to the police watchdog, which has launched an investigation.

A number of properties were evacuated during the incident. Residents are now being allowed to return to their homes, and it is not believed there is any ongoing risk to the public.

A police spokesperson said: “Specialist armed officers attended the scene, supported by police negotiators and other emergency services. Despite sustained efforts over a number of hours to engage with the man and bring the incident to a safe resolution, shortly after 9.30am, he presented a weapon before police fired.

“Officers and medical professionals provided immediate advanced first aid at the scene. Despite these efforts, the man was pronounced dead shortly before 10.30am. His next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.”

An Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) spokesperson said: “We were notified by Bedfordshire Police that a man was shot by armed police at a property in Aylesbury Road and was declared deceased shortly before 10.30am.

“After being notified by the force, we declared an independent investigation and have sent investigators to the scene and the police post incident procedure to begin gathering evidence. Our thoughts are with the man’s family and everyone affected by this incident.”

Police officers were supported by crews from East of England Ambulance Service, including two critical care crews from Magpas Air Ambulance, and Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service.

A cordon will remain in place while enquiries continue at the scene, the force also said.