Last update: Mon Dec 1 2008 21:04:05

Police shoot man on cathedral steps

The family of a man shot dead by police on the steps of a cathedral have spoken of their shock.

David Sycamore, 39, who suffered from manic depression, was described in a statement as a "loving and caring young man" whose intentions "were never to harm anybody".

He was fatally wounded by armed officers called to the cathedral in Guildford, Surrey on Sunday following reports that a man with a gun was roaming the grounds.

A post mortem examination concluded Mr Sycamore died from a gunshot wound to the chest. Another bullet struck his right arm.

Paramedics were called and tried to resuscitate him but he died at the scene. A weapon was later recovered nearby, police said.

Four firearms officers have been taken off operational firearms duties but have not been suspended.

The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has launched an investigation into his killing.

Mr Sycamore's family said in a statement: "In his short life David has suffered with manic depression which we believe he coped with, with extreme difficulty at times.

"David found solace in the grounds of the cathedral and said it brought him inner peace and closer to God.

"Unfortunately that day he did not find inner peace. His intentions were never to harm anybody. He would never do this. But sadly the only loss was David who will be sorely missed."

© Independent Television News Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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