Teen arrested after police threatened with gun in Stalybridge

A teenager has been arrested after police officers were threatened with a gun in Stalybridge. 

At around 10.20pm on Wednesday evening (2 December), a PC and PCSO were on a routine patrol in the Stalybridge area when they observed a male behaving suspiciously. 

They initially tried to speak to him through their patrol vehicle's window. As they got out of the vehicle, the male pointed a large silver hand gun at them before threatening additional officers who attended to assist.

A 17-year-old has been arrested on suspicion of firearms offences and making threats to kill. He remains in police custody for questioning.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Police cordons have remained in place in Stalybridge on Thursday morning. 

Superintendent Robert Cousen, of GMP's Tameside district, said: "I am sure members of the public will agree that this was a terrifying incident so I would like to start by commending my officers for their outstanding bravery. We will provide them with any support they require.

"Their response was exceptional and they did a phenomenal job of bringing the incident to a swift conclusion and securing the arrest of a 17-year-old male.  

"Enquiries are ongoing and, as such, there are a number of scenes in Stalybridge. We are aware that this incident may have caused concern within the community but I would encourage anyone who is concerned to speak directly to one of the extra officers who will be in the area today."

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 9216, quoting 2498 02/12/20 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.