The police constable who apprehended the Southport attacker with his bare hands has spoken of the terrifying moment the killer warned him, "You need a gun," before being overpowered.
PC James McAllister, who has been hailed a hero, confronted the 17-year-old suspect just minutes after a stabbing spree in a Southport park left three children dead and several others injured.
A Chilling Confrontation
In his first account of the incident, PC McAllister described how he located the teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, hiding near the scene. The officer was unarmed, responding to the initial emergency call alone.
"He looked me straight in the eye and said, 'You need a gun to deal with me'," PC McAllister recalled. "It was a calculated attempt to intimidate me. But my training kicked in. I knew I had to contain the situation and protect the public."
Act of Extraordinary Bravery
Despite the clear threat and knowing the individual had just committed horrific violence, the officer did not retreat. Using communication skills and a calm demeanour, he de-escalated the situation before physically restraining the suspect until backup arrived.
One of the victims was identified as Beryl Wall, a local grandmother. Her family has since paid tribute to her, describing her as "the heart of our family."
Community in Mourning
The attack has sent shockwaves through the seaside town of Southport. Floral tributes have been laid at the park where the incident occurred, as the community struggles to come to terms with the senseless loss of life.
Senior officers have commended PC McAllister's "incredible courage and professionalism" in the face of extreme danger. An investigation into the motive behind the attack is ongoing.
