Emergency services were called to Stall Street in Bath on Monday after reports of a woman approaching people with a plastic bag, leading to individuals feeling unwell. Avon and Somerset Police have arrested a 73-year-old woman on suspicion of administering an unknown noxious substance.

Responders, including emergency workers in hazmat suits, swiftly cordoned off the area to ensure public safety. Initially, two people were reported taken to the hospital, but it was later confirmed that only one woman required hospital treatment. She experienced breathing difficulties and itchy eyes but was discharged later in the evening.

Despite extensive testing, no trace of any chemical or hazardous substance was found in the area, and the cordon was lifted shortly before 8 pm. CCTV inquiries helped identify the suspect, leading to her arrest.

Chief Inspector Scott Hill of the Bath Neighbourhood Policing Team thanked the public for their patience, stating, “Public safety is always our top priority, and we implemented well-rehearsed plans to ensure this isolated incident was dealt with as swiftly and effectively as possible.

Hill emphasized the precautionary measures taken by emergency services, including the use of protective clothing due to initial uncertainties about the substance. He reassured the public, confirming that thorough testing found no traces of chemical substances and that there is no increased risk to the public.

Hill added, “Further enquiries will be required to fully understand what caused some people to feel unwell, but to help us progress that work, we have made an arrest as we seek to establish whether any offence has been committed.

Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact them on 101.

Contact Information: For more updates, visit our website or follow us on social media. If you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the police on 101.