Patchway Police Centre Evacuated Over Bomb Scare
A 43-year-old man from Bristol has been charged after a bomb scare forced the evacuation of Patchway Police Centre and nearby homes on Saturday evening.
Suspicious Item Sparks Full-Scale Bomb Alert
Jason Lenton, from Southmead, Bristol, stands accused of making an explosive substance for an unlawful purpose and a bomb hoax.
The alarm was raised shortly after 5 pm when Gloucestershire police found a suspicious item at the Patchway centre. The Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team swiftly joined the scene, setting up a 100-metre cordon and evacuating residents and businesses as a precaution.
Bomb Squad Declares Scene Safe, Investigation Underway
After thorough checks, the EOD confirmed the item posed no danger, allowing evacuees to return. However, the incident caused temporary disruption across the local community.
In the early hours of Monday, August 7, Lenton was arrested and charged. He remains in custody ahead of his appearance at Bristol Magistrates’ Court later today.
Police praised the public’s calm response and credited the quick teamwork between officers and the EOD for managing the scare without harm.
