ARMED police descended on a derelict property in Taunton last night (September 25) – and made four arrests.
Officers, along with drones and the force helicopter, were sent to the scene in Harp Chase at around 7.10pm after reports of a man making threats – and people “potentially in possession of weapons”.
Harp Chase is home to the closed former Orchard Close Care Home, though the precise location has not been confirmed by police.
“Investigations are continuing, and officers remain at the scene and searches of the property will be carried out for much of today,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.
“Increased visibility patrols will also take place, as well as CCTV and house-to-house enquiries.”
They confirmed four people were arrested, and remain in custody, who were:
A man and a woman, both in their mid-30s, arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear
A man, in his early 40s, arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon in public and on suspicion of possessing a Class A drug
A man, in his early 20s, arrested on suspicion of possessing a bladed article in a public place
READ MORE: Crime news from your Somerset Leveller
Neighbourhoods’ inspector Jonathan Eamer said: “We received a single report last night that someone was in possession of a firearm during this incident.
“While there is no evidence or suggestion that a firearm was discharged, it was right that on the grounds of public safety we took this report seriously.
“At this time, we have not located a firearm but searches of the property are ongoing to help us establish a full understanding of what took place.
“We understand this is a concerning incident to residents who live nearby, and they are encouraged to speak to officers in the area about any concerns they may have.”
Any witnesses to the incident, or those with dashcam, mobile phone, or doorbell footage that may help with the investigation, should contact police on 101 quoting reference 5225270162.
READ MORE: Taunton news from your Somerset Leveller
