Chaos at Car Park: Man Attacks Police Car, Arrested and Rearrested Under Terrorism Act
Attack Sparks Police Response
Just before 10pm on Tuesday 4 January, an officer preparing to start his patrol spotted a man entering a car park. The man suddenly charged at the police car, smashing it while hurling threats at officers inside.
Police quickly sprung into action, using a Taser to subdue and detain the 31-year-old suspect.
Serious Charges and Sudden Turn
He was initially arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, assaulting a police officer, and trespassing on enclosed premises. But the drama didn’t stop there.
The next day, detectives from Counter Terrorism Policing North West rearrested him under the Terrorism Act — though officials have not classified the incident as terrorism.
Mental Health Concerns Take Centre Stage
On Thursday 6 January, the man was detained under Section 2 of the Mental Health Act. He will be assessed by mental health professionals for 28 days.
He has since been released without charge relating to the terrorism suspicion but remains on bail while police continue investigating the original offences.
Police Speak Out
Detective Inspector Phil Ogley of Counter Terrorism Policing North West said:
“We believe this was a spontaneous, isolated incident with no wider public threat. After assessment, releasing him for specialist mental health care was the right move.”
“We keep an open mind and are following every lead.”
“We urge the public to report suspicious behaviour via gov.uk/ACT and to call 999 in emergencies.”
All Officers Safe but Shaken
Thankfully, no officers were hurt, though they were left shaken by the violent encounter. Support has been provided to those involved.
