Newcastle pre-school ‘locked down’ after man seen ‘carrying weapon’ as police deployed
A Newcastle pre-school was placed into a ‘voluntary lockdown’ this morning (March 3) after a man was seen nearby carrying a ‘suspected weapon’. The man was arrested by police on suspicion of affray and currently remains in police custody.
Northumbria Police confirmed that no threats were made to any children at the Little Learners NE pre-school, located at The Blakelaw Centre, although officers remained in the area to conduct extra patrols.
A parent whose son attends the pre-school told ChronicleLive a man had been acting suspiciously before staff were alerted by concerned parents.
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: “Just after 9am this morning (Tuesday), we received a report of suspicious activity outside of premises on Binswood Avenue in Newcastle.
(Image: Newcastle Chronicle)
Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings
“It is understood a male who was sighted in the vicinity of the building was thought to be carrying a suspected weapon.
“Officers were immediately deployed to the area and arrested a man aged 33 on suspicion of affray. He is currently in police custody.
“Officers remained in the area for a number of hours to conduct extra patrols and provide reassurance to the public.
“It is understood a pre-school on the premises placed themselves into a voluntary lockdown – although no threats were made to any children and the suspect did not attempt to enter this part of the building.
“Anyone with concerns is asked to speak to an officer on duty or to get in touch with Northumbria Police.
“If you have information on this incident, please send Northumbria Police a direct message on social media or use live chat and report forms on the Force’s website. Those unable to make contact in these ways can call 101. Please quote reference number: NP-20260303-0264.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.
