Woman in her 60s dead as armed police called to Oxford

Members of the public reported seeing armed police officers and three Thames Valley Police cars on Cowley Road at around 3pm yesterday (Thursday, March 19).

One anonymous eyewitness told this newspaper: “There were three police cars, armed police officers, four ambulances and a critical care unit.

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Armed police were at the scene (STOCK PHOTO). (Image: NQ)

“The roads were gridlocked, and there were around eight paramedics at the side of the road performing CPR.”

Thames Valley Police was asked for comment on the situation, with officers confirming today (Friday, March 20) that a woman had died at the scene.

A spokesperson for the force said: “This was the death of a woman in her 60s due to a medical episode.”

Explaining as to why an armed police presence was at the scene, the spokesperson added: “When they are not responding to our highest‑risk calls and firearms incidents, our firearms officers carry out patrols in towns and cities and support local policing.

“On this occasion, while on patrol, they came across a medical incident and provided first aid.

“Although they routinely carry firearms as part of their role, this was not an incident where armed officers were specifically deployed.”

Police added that no further details would be provided on the incident.