Knife-Wielding Man Sparks Horror on Leeds Bus
On the night of December 21, PC Mike Watkins and PC Tom Swift faced a terrifying showdown on a Number 75 bus in Holbeck, Leeds. A man was swinging a large knife around his head, threatening terrified passengers.
Officers Jump Into Action Without Backup
Arriving shortly after 11:30 p.m., the officers spotted the knifeman sitting in the middle of the bus, still armed. The driver had already halted the bus, worried for everyone’s safety—including a trainee driver onboard.
Recognising the serious threat, the officers didn’t wait for backup. After requesting Taser permission, they boarded the bus and told the man to drop the knife. He refused, swinging the blade and advancing aggressively.
Tasers, Batons, and Spray – Nothing Stops the Madman
The Tasers barely fazed him because of his baggy clothes. PC Watkins swung his baton, which slipped from his hand and was grabbed by the man, who then brandished both the knife and baton menacingly. Throughout the chaos, the officers kept passengers safe.
PC Swift stepped up, hitting the attacker with his baton while PC Watkins sprayed PAVA. Still, the man pressed on, forcing the fight off the bus steps and into the street.
With all weapons failing to stop him, the officers got physical, grabbing his arms and wrestling him to the ground. They finally subdued and handcuffed the knifeman safely.
Bravery Honoured with National Police Awards
The man was later sectioned under the Mental Health Act and given treatment. West Yorkshire Police Federation Chair Brian Booth praised the officers:
“This was a very difficult assignment, made harder when both Taser and PAVA spray failed to stop this knifeman. Mike and Tom had to think and act quickly, potentially saving lives. We’re extremely proud of their bravery and professionalism.”
PC Watkins and PC Swift are now nominees for the National Police Bravery Awards, which celebrate outstanding courage across England and Wales. They will join fellow heroes for a reception and awards ceremony in London this July.
