Armed Suspect Caught After Intense Manchester Street Chase
Three quick-thinking cops stopped a potentially deadly attack in its tracks during a routine patrol in Manchester on March 24, 2021. PC Jack Ginger, PC Jessica Hamblett, and PC Richard Hayes were cruising in a plain vehicle when things turned violent fast.
Suspicious Behaviour Sparks Police Chase
PC Hamblett spotted a group lingering suspiciously. PC Hayes cautiously reversed the car when a loud bang rang out — which sounded like a gunshot. Moments later, a man bolted down the street, dragging a black bin bag, trying to hide something.
The officers shouted at the man to stop, but he dashed towards a parked black Ford Focus with two men inside. The chase was on.
Heart-Stopping Foot Pursuit and Firearm Find
- PC Ginger sprinted after the suspect on foot, with PC Hayes close behind.
- Meanwhile, PC Hamblett tailed the getaway car in the police vehicle.
- The Ford Focus sped off, recklessly driving on the pavement and ditching the runner.
- The suspect was finally caught after a tense chase through back streets.
PC Hayes found the bin bag near where the suspect tried to get into the car. Inside was a converted blank-firing Retay handgun, still loaded.
Quick Action Pays Off – Suspect Now Behind Bars
The man was charged with possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life. His fingerprints were all over the bag. In July 2021, he was sentenced to five years in prison.
What a fantastic trio of colleagues,” said Greater Manchester Police Federation Chair Lee Broadbent. “We are extremely proud of their efforts.”
“Jack, Jessica, and Richard bravely pursued a man armed with a firearm they believed had just been discharged. They acted swiftly to protect the public, putting their own safety at risk.”
“Their coordination during the pursuit helped recover the weapon and gather critical evidence, taking a high-risk offender off our streets.”
Bravery Honoured at National Police Awards
PC Ginger, PC Hamblett, and PC Hayes have been nominated for the National Police Bravery Awards. The ceremony will be held in London this July to celebrate officers across England and Wales who put their lives on the line.
This heroic trio’s swift, fearless action delivered justice and kept the community safe.
