Man Arrested After Police Stand-Off in Barrow Town Centre
A man has been arrested after police were called to a disturbance in Barrow town centre.
The incident happened on Dalton Road shortly after 4pm on May 20. Police were called following reports of a man outside The Derby Inn who was believed to be intoxicated and carrying an offensive weapon.
Officers attended the scene and worked to bring the situation under control. During the incident, police aimed Tasers at the man, but they were not discharged.
The man, who is in his thirties and from Barrow, was arrested on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly and possessing an offensive weapon. He has since been released on bail while police enquiries continue.
What Happened on Dalton Road?
Police responded to reports of a disturbance on Dalton Road, one of Barrow’s main town centre routes.
Witnesses reported seeing police outside The Derby Inn as officers dealt with the incident. The situation caused concern among people nearby, especially due to the report that an offensive weapon may have been involved.
Officers attempted to de-escalate the situation and keep the area safe. As part of their response, Tasers were aimed at the man.
However, police confirmed the Tasers were not fired.
Why Police Aimed Tasers
Tasers may be drawn or aimed when officers believe there is a risk to the public, themselves, or the person involved.
In this case, officers were responding to a report involving a suspected weapon. Aiming a Taser can be used as a warning and a way to control a situation without physical contact.
The fact that the Tasers were not discharged suggests officers were able to resolve the incident without using them.
Arrest and Bail
Following the stand-off, the man was arrested.
He was detained on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly and possessing an offensive weapon.
He was later released on bail. This means police can continue their investigation while further enquiries are carried out. These enquiries may include speaking to witnesses, reviewing CCTV and gathering evidence from the scene.
No charge has been reported at this stage.
Impact on the Local Area
The incident took place in a busy part of Barrow town centre. Dalton Road is used by shoppers, workers, residents and people visiting nearby businesses.
Any report involving a possible weapon can cause understandable concern. Police responses of this kind are intended to protect the public and prevent the situation from escalating.
The incident also shows the importance of reporting concerns quickly, especially when someone may be carrying a weapon or behaving in a way that puts others at risk.
What Happens Next?
Police enquiries are ongoing.
Anyone who saw the incident, or who has information that may help, can contact Cumbria Police on 101. In an emergency, or if someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
