Thomas Shannon Gilheaney, 29, has appeared in court charged in connection with a critical incident declared in Swansea on Friday. He is accused of possessing an offensive weapon, namely a machete, and using or threatening unlawful violence on November 6.
Gilheaney appeared before Swansea Magistrates' Court on Monday morning, where he denied carrying a machete. The defendant, whose address was given as Pant-y-blawd Road caravan site in Llansamlet, also pleaded not guilty to using or threatening unlawful violence.
Incident on public highway
The court heard an incident took place between 4pm and 5pm on a public highway on Friday, with several members of the public present. It was described as allegedly involving multiple family members as part of a family feud.
Gilheaney, who the court heard is a landscape gardener, will next appear before Swansea Crown Court on December 11. Until then he has been remanded in custody.
Police investigation and appeal
A 41-year-old man from Llansamlet arrested on suspicion of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life and a 16-year-old boy, also from Llansamlet, arrested on suspicion of affray, have been released on bail.
South Wales Police said a vehicle on the A48 in Morriston sustained damage "consistent with a firearms discharge" on Friday. The force said officers were still investigating and that it had been declared a critical incident.
There are no known injuries in connection with the incident. Detectives are continuing with their appeal for information and are particularly keen to hear from motorists who were travelling along Clase Road, Samlet Road, Upper Forest Way or Valley Way between 4.15pm and 4.30pm on Friday afternoon, and those who travelled along Valley Way between 12pm and 1.30pm.
Even if motorists didn't witness the incident itself, or see anything they considered significant at the time, they are asked to submit dashcam footage as it may have captured information, vehicles or movements that are important to the investigation, a South Wales Police statement said on Monday.
Police presence to remain
Chief Superintendent Stephen Jones said: "Our investigation which involves teams of detectives and specialist staff continues. Incidents such as this one are rare but we appreciate they cause significant concern within local communities.
"Our visible policing presence will remain in the area as officers continue their enquiries and provide reassurance to local residents. I would like to thank members of the public who have assisted with our investigation so far."
