Merseyside Police officers discharged a Taser during a dramatic confrontation with a man reportedly armed with a knife close to a primary school in Southport. The incident unfolded on Monday afternoon, prompting a significant emergency response and raising serious concerns about public safety.
Dramatic Scene on Manchester Road
According to official statements, police were called to Manchester Road at approximately 3:15 PM following multiple reports from alarmed members of the public. The callers stated a man was in possession of a bladed article near the vicinity of a local school.
Upon arrival, officers attempted to engage with the individual. A police spokesperson confirmed that a Taser was subsequently deployed to safely disarm and detain the man. He was taken into custody without further incident.
Investigation Launched by Professional Standards Department
In a move highlighting the seriousness of the event, Merseyside Police has referred the matter to its own Professional Standards Department. This is standard procedure in incidents where a Taser is discharged.
A force representative stated: "We can confirm that a Taser was discharged by an officer. The incident has been referred to our Professional Standards Department, and a mandatory referral will also be made to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC)."
Community Reaction and School Safety
The location of the incident, close to a primary school, has understandably caused anxiety within the local community. Parents and residents have expressed relief that the situation was resolved without physical injury to any children or members of the public.
Local authorities have reassured parents that all necessary protocols were followed to ensure the safety of pupils and staff at the nearby school.
The man involved in the incident remains in police custody for questioning as investigations continue.
