Manhunt for hammer-wielding robber who smashed up shop
Police are hunting for a man who robbed a shop in Cheltenham[1] while armed with a hammer this afternoon (August 15). The offender entered the store in Winchcombe Street shortly after 1pm before smashing cabinets, stealing items and threatening staff.
Local residents have reported seeing armed officers on the streets as well as a police helicopter in the skies above the town after the robbery. According to a witness, a police cordon is in place in Moors Avenue - around two miles from Winchcombe Street.
A police helicopter has also been seen circling the Princess Elizabeth Way area of Cheltenham. Multiple police vehicles were also spotted pulled into College Way, off Arle Road, at around 1.40pm.
Gloucestershire Police[3] have confirmed that no one has been injured at this stage. They are continuing to work to locate the offender alongside the National Police Air Service.
Police said: "We're at the scene of an incident in Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham which happened earlier this afternoon (Tuesday).
"Police were called shortly after 1pm with a report a male with a hammer entered a shop on the street. He smashed the cabinets, stole items and threatened staff before he fled in a vehicle.
"No injuries have been reported at this stage and searches are ongoing to locate those involved. Officers are being supported by the National Police Air Service."
For all of the latest updates on the incident, follow our live blog here.[4]
References
- ^ Cheltenham (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ Two men charged with attempted murder after Forest of Dean stabbing (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ Gloucestershire Police (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
- ^ live blog here. (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)