Armed Police Swarm Barnehurst After Man Threatens Shooting on Roof
Thirty armed officers from across London flooded sleepy Barnehurst in the early hours of Monday, shutting down Bexley Road after a man climbed onto a rooftop claiming he had a gun and threatened to shoot.
Man Holds Roof Hostage, Demands Access to Kids
The man warned he would shoot anyone who tried to get close, saying he had a gun in his pocket. Police swiftly cordoned off multiple roads and told residents to remain indoors as the tense standoff unfolded.
Seven marked armed response units, an undercover BMW X5, a dog handler, and police vans arrived just after midnight. Fire service’s NILO officers and a HART team were also scrambled, treating the threat as serious.
Helicopter Buzzes Overheated Residents
A police helicopter from Essex hovered above, assisting with the risk assessment. Officers focused on a property above a chemist on Bexley Road. Streets were blocked off and side roads sealed.
Frustrated locals vented on social media about the helicopter noise disturbing their warm night, windows open due to the heat.
Man Detained; Weapon and Charges Unknown
After talks with officers, the man was arrested and taken away in a police van. It remains unclear if a weapon was found or what charges he faces.
“I heard he was having a tough time trying to get access to his children,” a neighbour, who wished to remain anonymous, said.
The Met Police have been approached for comment. More updates to follow.
