Mystery surrounds a ‘major incident’ that unfolded in Melksham 24 hours ago – leaving some neighbours concerned for their own safety.
Specially trained public order police officers and negotiators were deployed following reports of an aggressive male in Catalina Court yesterday afternoon (Thursday, 3 October).
A large area was cordoned off as a significant number of emergency services personnel attended the scene for several hours – including firefighters and ambulance crews.
The incident is believed to have involved chemicals and the deliberate flooding of a property, but this has not been confirmed by authorities at this stage.
A concerned local told Wiltshire 999s that “it all seemed pretty major”.
Adding: “There were police and paramedics everywhere, some were wearing white suits like you see in the films.
“They were dressed up almost like forensics at a crime scene but wearing their normal uniform on top.
“It’s really worrying, the police won’t tell us anything here but my neighbour said an officer told her there’s nothing to worry about, but it doesn’t seem that way.”
The resident said they believe a man was later arrested at the scene, but it’s not clear whether officers made an arrest or if the person was detained under the Mental Health Act.
Wiltshire Police was asked for an update at 8.01am today (Friday) but has not yet responded.
At the time, in a public statement, a spokesperson said: “Please be aware that we are currently at the scene of a mental health-related incident in Bowerhill, Melksham.
“There is no wider threat to the public. Please avoid the area.”
