Armed officers were called to Cardigan Street at around 12:50 p.m. on Tuesday following reports that a man was threatening a woman with a knife, Sky News reported.
A Bedfordshire Police officer fired four shots, while another officer discharged a baton round. The man appears to have been struck once in the arm and once in the leg, the police watchdog said.
He was taken to hospital with life-changing injuries. The woman was also hospitalized with stab wounds, but her injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
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The IOPC said it launched an investigation into the incident shortly before 2 p.m. Tuesday and sent investigators to the scene.
IOPC Director of Engagement Emily Barry said the use of firearms by police officers was rare, but an independent investigation was necessary when potentially lethal force had been used.
The watchdog said all officers involved were currently being treated as witnesses, as there was no indication that they had breached professional standards or committed a criminal offence.
The investigation is in its initial stages and is examining the officers’ actions and decisions, including the use of firearms and whether the force used was reasonable, necessary and proportionate.
The IOPC has secured the police firearms for examination and reviewed CCTV and police body-camera footage.
