Deer shot 'multiple times' by police after being hit by vehicle on M8

Police Scotland’s watchdog has said officers were right to shoot a deer “multiple times” after it had been hit by a vehicle on the M8.

The Police Investigations and Review Commissioner (PIRC) said that officers had acted “appropriately” in ending the animal’s suffering after it was discovered on a live lane of the road.

Police were called to the eastbound carriageway after five members of the public reported an injured deer on July 23 last year.

After confirming that the animal was seriously injured and in a clear state of distress, police closed the road.

While attempts were made to bring vet or humane dispatchers to the scene, none were found to be available or were a “considerable” distance away from the incident.

A decision was made by a police inspector to send two firearms officers to the scene to “end the animal’s suffering”.

A report to the PIRC said that “multiple” shots had to be discharged over a 20-minute period to cull the deer.

Following an investigation, the watchdog found that the decision to deploy police firearms was in accordance with the training.

It said the deer was seriously injured and in a clear state of distress within the live lane of a busy carriageway, and officers had exhausted alternative options.

The report found that the initial tactical firearms commander opted not to contact the firearms tactical advisor under the belief that “no advice was required”.

“This is not in line with guidance provided by the College of Policing in respect of firearms deployments,” PIRC said.

The operational firearms commander was found not to have “effective command” of the incident after choosing to take a vantage point from a nearby overpass to implement a road closure.

Following the investigation, Police Scotland was told to issue guidance to all initial tactical firearms commanders, reminding them to consult with a firearms tactical advisor in incidents like this.

It added that all operational firearms commanders should be located where they are able to maintain effective command of incidents involving firearms.

PIRC also ordered Police Scotland to draft a protocol that establishes procedures for contacting a veterinary surgeon or other appropriate authority to attend such incidents and provide viable options for the safe management of injured or dangerous animals.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “In incidents such as this officers will seek to minimise any suffering and act as humanely as possible. We note the findings of the PIRC and work is ongoing to address the recommendations made.”