A gun-wielding suspect has been arrested after an incident in Faringdon.
Armed police swarmed a usually quite residential street to carry out an arrest attempt in the early hours of today (Thursday), but instead ended up in an eight-hour stand-off.
It’s understood as officers tried to make entry into the upper-floor flat in Goodbody Close, the occupant – a 23-year-old man – made threats towards them.
The suspect was wanted in connection with a firearms offence, which led to a significant emergency response at the scene close to Folly View Primary School.
The area was flooded with around 22 police vehicles, including numerous armed response vehicles and Hazardous Area Response Team (HART) ambulance crews.
During the incident, items were thrown at police. Cans of food, including tuna and tomatoes, littered the road and one resident’s car was damaged.
Two specially-trained negotiators were deployed, providing assistance as they attempted to bring the incident under control.
Following an eight-hour stand-off, which even involved an Counter Terrorist Specialist Firearms Officer (CTSFO), the suspect was arrested on suspicion of possession of firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and theft.
The man was assessed by paramedics after being detained, before being searched and put into a police van. He was then taken to custody for processing. Two knives were seized.
In a statement, a Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “We attended a property in Goodbody Close at about 2.23am today, March 6, to make an arrest attempt in relation to a firearms offence.
“Our officers carried out an armed deployment outside the property and the incident has now been resolved.”
Adding: “A 23-year-old man from Abingdon has been arrested on suspicion of possession of firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and theft. He remains in custody at this time.
“We understand this may cause concern but we still believe there is no threat to the wider public. Please continue to avoid the area whilst officers are at the scene.”
