Images by Connor Pelech
ARMED police descended on Stalybridge on Friday, August 22, as a dramatic pursuit ended with a man jumping into the Huddersfield Narrow Canal.
Officers were first alerted at around 2.20pm when a man riding a motorised bike near Birch Lane aroused suspicion. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that a pursuit was initiated and after a short chase on foot, the suspect attempted to dive out of trouble by leaping into the canal.
Armed units were spotted on Caroline Street and Castle Street, where officers patiently waited for the suspect to come up for air and leave the water before making the arrest.
@ggc_media ARMED police descended on Stalybridge on Friday, August 22, as a dramatic pursuit ended with a man jumping into the Huddersfield Narrow Canal. Officers were first alerted at around 2.20pm when a man riding a motorised bike near Birch Lane aroused suspicion. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) confirmed that a pursuit was initiated and after a short chase on foot, the suspect attempted to dive out of trouble by leaping into the canal. #stalybridge #tameside
A GMP spokesperson said:
“At around 2.20pm today, officers spotted a suspicious male on a motorised bike near Birch Lane, and subsequently initiated a pursuit. Shortly after, the male decamped and following a short foot chase, he was detained.”
The man, aged 38, was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop, and possession of a bladed article.
Police confirmed he was taken to hospital as a precautionary measure after his dip in the canal — though it seems he may now be in deep water in more ways than one.