Emergency services are currently responding to a tense situation in Chorley, Lancashire, where a man has taken to a rooftop and is refusing to come down. The individual, who climbed onto the roof early this morning, has been reported throwing objects and igniting small fires, leading to a significant police presence and road closures.
Incident Details
Lancashire Police were alerted to the incident on Bolton Road at approximately 9:16 AM on May 24. The man, who remains on the roof, has been seen throwing tiles and other items from his elevated position, causing damage to parked vehicles, including smashed windscreens. Witnesses have also reported small fires being set, though the motive behind the man's actions remains unclear.
Emergency Response
Fire crews have joined police at the scene, with the road cordoned off to ensure public safety. Pedestrians and drivers are being diverted away from the area. Local residents have shared images on social media showing police, fire engines, and paramedics stationed nearby, with some noting that the man used scaffolding to access the roof.
Police Statement
In a full statement, Lancashire Police said: 'At 9.16am today (24th May) we were called to Bolton Road in Chorley following reports a man had climbed onto the roof of a property and was refusing to come down. Officers have attended the scene and the man has begun throwing objects from the roof and setting small fires. Emergency services, including our colleagues from the fire service, remain at the scene. We would ask members of the public to avoid the area whilst efforts are made to bring the incident to a safe conclusion.'
Community Impact
The standoff has caused disruption in the Chorley area, with residents advised to steer clear of Bolton Road until further notice. Authorities are working to resolve the situation peacefully, and updates are expected as the incident develops.
