The city was brought to a standstill on Monday and residents were forced to evacuate their homes after a man in a property was allegedly found to have weapons – sparking an armed stand-off with police
A man has been arrested on suspicion of firearms offences, including “threats to kill and communicate with a bomb hoax” – almost three days into a stand-off with armed police in Sheffield.
Negotiations with the “armed man” began on Monday at around 7pm when officers were called to a building in Broad Street following “concerns for a man who was alleged to have weapons and pose a risk to himself”, which led to nearby properties being evacuated.
South Yorkshire Police said earlier this morning that negotiators were still talking to the man, but that Sheffield Parkway had re-opened in both directions and public transport has resumed as normal following closures. Displaced residents were meanwhile still unable to return to their properties.
In an update released shortly after 8am, police said a 47-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of affray, criminal damage, possession of a firearm, threats to kill and communicate with a bomb hoax. He remains in police custody.
The force said in a statement: “We would like to thank the public for their continued cooperation and patience during our response to the incident which resulted in the evacuation of an apartment building and road closures in Sheffield city centre.
“An arrest has been made and road closures have been stood down. On Monday (10 February) just after 7pm, we responded to concerns for a man inside a property on Broad Street, alleged to have weapons and pose a risk to himself. The Sheffield Parkway, between Park Square roundabout and Derek Dooley Way was closed, while emergency services, including specialist officers responded.
“The apartment building evacuated due to an increased risk to their safety. Today (Wednesday 12 February) a 47-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of affray, criminal damage, possession of a firearm, threats to kill and communicate with a bomb hoax.
“He remains in police custody at this time. The Sheffield parkway has fully reopened but the building remains closed, while officers conduct a thorough search. We would like to thank those who have been affected for their continued support while emergency services conduct their work. Your support is greatly appreciated. A further update will be provided when the building is reopened.”
