Armed police responded to reports of a man with a possible handgun outside a UK school as the children and parents were placed in lockdown
Armed police descended on a street outside a primary school after reports of a ‘gunman’ caused children and staff to go into lockdown.
Firearm officers were called to Carron Street in Fenton in Staffordshire following concerns that a man was armed with a handgun this afternoon (February 5).
Co-op Academy Clarice Cliff, located nearby, was advised to keep students indoors while the situation was being handled from around 3.10pm.
Staffordshire Police have now confirmed the arrest of a 26 year old man from Stoke-on-Trent on suspicion of weapons offences. Stoke on Trent Live reported an air pistol, knife and hatchet have been confiscated.
Officers are maintaining a presence in the Fenton area this evening to provide reassurance to residents. A call has also been made for any CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage.
A spokesperson for the force said: “A man has been arrested on suspicion of weapons offences following reports of suspicious activity in Stoke-on-Trent. We were called at 3.20pm today to Carron Street in Fenton after reports of a man acting suspiciously in the area with a possible handgun.”
“Firearms officers attended the scene. An air pistol, a knife and a hatchet were recovered. A 26-year-old man, from Stoke-on-Trent, was detained at the scene. He has since been taken into custody while inquiries continue.
“Officers continue to monitor the area and carry out patrols to reassure the local community. Anyone with relevant information, CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage should call us.”
The school was placed under lockdown from approximately 3.10pm until 3.50pm.
In a message sent to parents during the busy pick-up time, the school stated: “We are keeping the children inside as a precaution as a member of the public has informed us of a possible danger in the locality. This is a precaution and all children are safe. We will update you as soon as we have the all clear. Thank you for your patience.”
Roughly 40 minutes afterwards, the school notified parents: “We have been given the all clear. You may collect your child/children as usual. Thank you for your patience and support.”
One father informed StokeonTrentLive: “There was an incident in Fenton at the Co-op Academy Clarice Cliffe. The school was put on lockdown. Kids were locked in the school and parents were locked on the school grounds due to reports of a man with a firearm on Carron Street.”
Anyone with information should contact Staffordshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 494 of February 5. To report anonymously, ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.