Lancashire Police called in the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit after a suspected grenade was discovered at a property on Kirkstall Close in Chorley. The cul-de-sac was cordoned off and nearby residents evacuated as a precaution.
Police Pursuit and Arrests
The discovery came after a police pursuit in Preston on June 21. Officers spotted a red Ford Fiesta with suspected illegal number plates on New Hall Lane at around 9:40pm. The driver failed to stop, prompting a chase that ended on Brockholes Brow. Police used tactical contact maneuvers to stop the vehicle before it could reach the M6 motorway.
The driver, a 20-year-old man from Chorley, exited the car and pointed what appeared to be a handgun at officers. It was later confirmed to be a BB gun. He was detained and found to be carrying two knives. He was arrested on suspicion of possession of a firearm, failing to stop, possession of an offensive weapon, and failure to provide a breath test. He remains in custody.
Passengers Also Arrested
Three passengers—a 20-year-old man from Preston, a 21-year-old woman from Preston, and a 21-year-old man from Preston—were later arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon. They also remain in custody.
Grenade Discovery and Evacuations
During subsequent searches at a property in Kirkstall Close, Chorley, officers located what is believed to be a grenade. As a precaution, some homes in the area were evacuated. The EOD team was called in to assess and deal with the device.
A Lancashire Police spokesperson said: “Whilst conducting searches at a property in Kirkstall Close, Chorley, as part of our enquiries, we located what is thought to be a grenade. As a precaution, some properties in the area have been evacuated and our Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) colleagues have been contacted and are in attendance.”
Public Reassurance
The force emphasized there is no current risk to the public. An investigation is ongoing, and police are appealing for anyone with information or footage to come forward. Officers will be conducting reassurance patrols in the area.
The spokesperson added: “We know this may be concerning to hear about, but we want to reassure you that we will have officers in and around the area conducting reassurance patrols. If you have any concerns, or any information you feel could assist us, please don’t hesitate to approach them as they conduct their duties. Alternatively, you can get in touch by calling 101 quoting log 1457 of June 21.”
