Two police officers were bitten by a dog while another was attacked with an...

Published: 3:33 pm March 2, 2026
Updated: 3:33 pm March 2, 2026

 

Two police officers were bitten by a dog while another was attacked with an axe in a dramatic operation on Marine Street, Bermondsey.

Dog Bites and Axe Mayhem in South East London

Police swooped on a property in the Dickens Estate at around 3.20pm on March 1. Upon arrival, two officers were savaged by a vicious dog – believed to be an Italian mastiff. Meanwhile, a man armed with axes launched a savage assault on another officer.

The dog, not a banned breed, was seized and taken to police kennels.

Officers Injured, Dog Seized & Suspect Arrested

Two police officers are currently in hospital with injuries inflicted by the axe and dog. Thankfully, their wounds are not life-threatening, and their conditions remain stable. A third officer sustained minor injuries but did not require hospital treatment.

 

Stephen Coombes, 43, from Marine Street, Bermondsey, was tasered and arrested at the scene, and now faces multiple charges:

  • Attempted murder
  • Being in charge of a dog that caused injury while dangerously out of control
  • A racially aggravated Public Order Act offence
  • Harassment intended to put in fear of violence

Coombes is due to appear at Croydon Magistrates’ Court this afternoon (March 2).

 

 

 

We are your go-to destination for breaking UK news, real-life stories from communities across the country, striking images, and must-see video from the heart of the action.

Follow us on Facebook at for the latest updates and developing stories, and stay connected on X (Twitter) the for live coverage as news breaks across the UK.

SIGN UP NOW FOR YOUR FREE DAILY BREAKING NEWS AND PICTURES NEWSLETTER

Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy

YOU MIGHT LIKE