Armed police called to Newton-le-Willows house as man seen ‘acting erratically’

Around 10 police cars are at the scene

Armed police were called to a house after a man was seen “acting erratically”. Police, fire and the ambulance service were called to The Avenue in Newton-le-Willows at around 7.30pm on Wednesday, April 1.

It followed reports of a man behaving “erratically”, a spokesperson for Merseyside Police said. Eyewitnesses reported seeing around 10 police cars on Crow Lane East, at the junction of The Avenue, with a cordon in place. The dog unit was also at the scene.

In a video shared with the ECHO, armed police could be seen with shields and pointing what appeared to be a gun at a house. Officers could be heard saying “we’re here to help you” and “stay calm”. They added: “Come to the door and bring nothing with you.”

ECHO reporter Emily Carubia witnessed a man leaning out the top window of a house, with armed police standing below. The man appeared to spit at officers before throwing a bottle which later smashed. He later closed the window.

An officer at the scene said the incident will be “ongoing for some time” and it is understood negotiations with the man are still ongoing. A spokesperson for Merseyside Police said there is currently a cordon in place while officers attempt to speak to the man.

Motorists and pedestrians are advised to avoid the area while the matter is being dealt with.

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