A significant emergency services operation, involving a helicopter, was launched at HMP Deerbolt near Barnard Castle in County Durham yesterday afternoon. The incident, which occurred on Friday, 22 May, prompted a rapid response from multiple agencies, including the Great North Air Ambulance Service and the North East Ambulance Service.
Medical Emergency at the Prison
The alarm was raised at 4:52 PM following reports of a medical incident at the Category C prison and young offender institution. Paramedics from the North East Ambulance Service dispatched two ambulance crews alongside the air ambulance. The helicopter arrived at the scene within 11 minutes of being activated at 5:08 PM, but was subsequently stood down as the casualty was transported by road.
A male patient was taken to Darlington Memorial Hospital for further treatment. His current condition remains unknown at this time.
Official Statements
A spokesperson for the North East Ambulance Service confirmed: "We received a call at 16:52 on Friday 22 May to reports of a medical incident at HMP Deerbolt. We sent two ambulance crews and the air ambulance, and took one male patient to Darlington Memorial Hospital for further treatment."
A representative from the Great North Air Ambulance Service added: "Our team were activated to an incident at 5:08 PM near Barnard Castle. The team flew to the scene and arrived within 11 minutes. However, upon arrival, they were no longer required and returned to base."
About HMP Deerbolt
HMP Deerbolt is a Category C prison located near Barnard Castle, County Durham. It also serves as a young offender institution, accommodating male inmates. The facility is designed for prisoners who are not considered a high escape risk but require a secure environment.
