LATEST: Police chiefs praise brave officers injured by man with axe in Sheffield

Police chiefs have praised brave bobbies injured by a man with an axe - with one officer left needing surgery today.
Police remain at a block of flats in Gleadless, Sheffield, after several officers were injured by a male when they attempted to arrest him. Picture: Ross Parry AgencyPolice remain at a block of flats in Gleadless, Sheffield, after several officers were injured by a male when they attempted to arrest him. Picture: Ross Parry Agency
Police remain at a block of flats in Gleadless, Sheffield, after several officers were injured by a male when they attempted to arrest him. Picture: Ross Parry Agency

Five officers were hurt after being called to a domestic incident in Plowright Close, Gleadless Valley, last night.

A female officer and a male colleague were injured when they knocked at the door of the property after receiving a call for assistance.

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Their attacker, who was armed with an axe, fled and ran into the nearby Co-op store in Blackstock Road, where he started hurling cans and bottles at staff and customers.

Three more officers who attempted to arrest him in the shop were also injured.

The female officer remains in hospital this morning and is due to undergo surgery.

The man eventually arrested in the shop is being held on suspicion of attempted murder today.

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Deputy Chief Constable Dawn Copley said: “This incident serves to remind us all of the dangers our officers face every time they respond to an incident, putting themselves in harm’s way to serve and protect local communities in South Yorkshire.

“The officers who attended in Gleadless last night were faced with an extremely dangerous situation and showed immense bravery dealing with a violent individual. Our thoughts are with those who were injured on duty and full welfare support has been put in place for all officers affected.”

Dr Alan Billings, South Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, added: “The recent attack on several police officers answering a call in a Sheffield suburb was a very serious incident that should make us all pause. One female police officer taken to hospital and others received medical treatment.

“I understand that a member of the public helped the injured officer.

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“There may be times when we criticise the police, but whenever we do so, we should never forget that every day officers are responding to calls never knowing what will confront them. They risk their own safety on a daily basis so that our safety can be assured.

“This is the second incident in this area within a few days. Fortunately, in both cases arrests have been speedily made and the public at large is not in danger. The community has also rallied round.

“But we should be in no doubt that we owe police officers a debt of gratitude for what they risk every day in order to maintain law and order and keep our communities safe. If you get the chance, you might want to thank them personally today.”