Knife-wielding man sparks panic in Southampton Virgin Media store
Hampshire police were called just after midday on Saturday 31 October 2015 to a terrifying ordeal at Virgin Media on Commercial Road.
Armed man takes hostage in busy city centre shop
A man, locally named Toby Maylott, stormed into the Virgin Media store armed with a machete. He threatened staff and customers before taking one hostage.
Three others, including a wheelchair user, were held briefly but later released.
Police lock down area and launch tense negotiations
Officers quickly evacuated and cordoned off the area, sealing it from the public. Armed cops with guns and riot shields swarmed the scene to keep the situation under control.
Specialist negotiators arrived to engage the man and prevent further violence.
