Armed Axe Attacker Bowled Over by Brave Cops in Woodley
In March 2021, PC Simon Toft and rookie PC Alicia Snowden faced a terrifying ordeal in Woodley. A man stormed a local pharmacy wielding a hammer and threatening staff with a knife, sparking a rapid police response.
Hammer-Wielding Man Goes on Rampage
The attacker didn’t stop there. After leaving the pharmacy, he assaulted a woman in her car. Then, he burst into Woodley Medical Centre armed with an axe and several kitchen knives. In a frenzy, he smashed a surgery window by hurling a chair inside.
PC Toft arrived first and immediately drew his Taser. The man calmly approached him, brandishing a heavy metal bar. As the attacker lunged, Toft fired the Taser, but thick clothing stopped a probe from making full contact.
Newbie PC Snowden Steps Up in High-Stakes Moment
Without missing a beat, PC Snowden charged in, kicking the metal bar away while shouting commands. The attacker kept reaching for knives and a meat cleaver from his backpack. Both officers deployed the Taser several times during the struggle.
Eventually, PC Snowden cuffed the man, maintaining control with firm commands. Backup arrived, and the dangerous suspect was arrested and later remanded in prison.
Police Federation Praises “Outstanding” Teamwork
“This was a real team effort, which enabled the quick arrest of the subject and ensured nobody got injured,” said manchester-police/" title="Greater Manchester Police" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked" data-wpil-monitor-id="7203">Greater Manchester Police Federation Chair Stu Berry. “For Alicia, especially, it was so soon into her service – she deserves high praise for how she handled herself and the situation. Simon’s police work and leadership were outstanding.”
The daring duo, nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards, are set to attend the ceremony in London on 9 December. Their fearless actions saved lives and stopped a violent rampage in its tracks.
