AN inquiry into the fatal shooting of a man in Kirkheaton is nearing completion.

But it may be months before it is made public.

The investigation by the Independent Police Complaints Commission was launched after the tragic death of Alistair Bell.

Mr Bell, 42, died after an armed police siege at his home in Cockley Hill Lane last December.

He shot a police officer who had called at the house to arrest him. Police marksmen surrounded the house for several hours as Mr Bell fired several shots.

But he was then shot dead by a police marksman.

News of the continuing investigation came as the Commission revealed that there were 52 deaths of people who had come into contact with police last year – a rise of 14.

They included two shootings, including the one at Kirkheaton, and 26 in road incidents – including 13 police pursuits.

The inquiry into Mr Bell’s death was launched immediately after the shooting.

An IPCC spokesman said: “It is still ongoing but is very well advanced.

“Inquiries of this scale can take several months, depending on the number of witnesses needed to be seen and tests carried out.

“Once we have completed the inquiry the results will be passed to the Coroner in West Yorkshire and the findings can be made public after he has held an inquest.”

IPCC chairman Len Jackson, said: “There are several positive aspects to these figures, including the lowest number of deaths linked to police pursuits since 2004/05.

“That’s an area of work the Commission has been very active in. We, alongside the police themselves and other stakeholders, are making a real difference here – something with which we can be collectively pleased.

“Conversely, there has been a rise in the numbers of deaths in custody for the second year in a row, from 15 to 21.

“A great deal of good work has been done to reduce the numbers who die in these circumstances, from around 50 nearly a decade ago. However, these figures highlight the need of forces to remain vigilant.

“Friends and families of those who have died will find little solace in the fact that their tragedy is one of what had been a decreasing number.”