Man Jailed for Brutal Machete Attack on Police Officer
Violent Petrol Station Standoff in Gateshead
A machete-wielding thug launched a savage assault on a Northumbria police officer at a Gateshead petrol station. PC Will Hunter spotted a shady vehicle in Leam Lane on August 10, 2024. When he asked the driver, 52-year-old Matthew Bello, about his insurance, things turned ugly — fast.
Bello attacked PC Hunter with a machete, slashing his arm before violently ramming the police car. He then fled the scene, leaving the officer injured on the road. Police quickly tracked Bello down and arrested him nearby in Saltwell, ending a tense chase.
Bello Convicted and Sentenced
Bello originally faced attempted murder charges but pleaded guilty to wounding with intent at Newcastle Crown Court. On January 19, he was slammed with a four-year prison sentence. Other convictions piled up:
- Possession of a knife in public
- Dangerous driving
- Using a vehicle without insurance
- A two-year driving ban starting after release, plus an extended driving test
Brave Officer Honoured
PC Will Hunter has since returned to duty and received the prestigious Bravery and Lifesaver Award at the Northumbria Police’s Pride in Policing Awards.
“In my 18 years’ service, I’ve dealt with violence – but never faced an attack like that,” said PC Hunter. “All my training kicked in. I was fighting for my life.”
“Thankfully, other officers arrived quickly to help detain him. We don’t come to work expecting to be attacked. I could have died that day.”
Northumbria Police stated: “We’re here to protect people, not to be attacked.”
