Young Coppers Face Down Armed Maniac in Shirehampton
Two brave officers tackled a violent axe-wielding man terrorising the streets of Shirehampton last January. Neither had Taser training, yet they kept cool to protect the public from a man on the rampage.
Axe and Knife Rampage Sparks Police Standoff
The man, distressed and volatile, first threatened a colleague with an axe before roaming the town carrying both the axe and a large knife. He had smashed the windows of his own home earlier that day. When the police arrived, he charged at the young officers, who stood firm between him and a crowd of onlookers.
Quick Thinking Beats Violent Attack
One officer deployed PAVA spray, staying out of reach of the swinging weapons. The spray took effect, allowing a second dose that slowed the attacker enough for them to wrestle him to the ground and slap on the cuffs. Despite the man’s attempts to bite and kick, the cops secured the scene and confiscated the deadly weapons.
Heroic Efforts Praised by Police Federation
Avon and Somerset Police Federation Chair Mark Loker hailed the officers’ “real courage” during the “fast-paced and ever-evolving” incident. “With no Taser training, they had to use what they had, making split-second decisions to keep the public safe,” he said. The violent man later received a 22-month prison sentence.
These officers are now nominees for the National Police Bravery Awards and will be honoured at a July ceremony in London, joining other heroic colleagues from across England and Wales.
