Admin l Thursday, February 02, 2017
WALTHAMSTOW, London – Four Metropolitan police officers are now hospitalised and one man arrested after forcing themselves into a burning house to save occupants in Walthamstow
Police were called at approximately 16:40hrs on Wednesday, 1 February following concerns for the welfare of a man at an address in Hartington Road, E17.
Officers, according to the statement attended and attempted to speak to the man. However, through a window they noticed that a fire had been started inside the address.
“Police forced entry to the property and found the man in possession of a knife and a bottle of accelerant – the man proceeded to squirt the liquid at officers. The man refused to comply with officers’ instructions and Taser was discharged.
“The man, 39, was detained and arrested on suspicion of arson with intent and GBH with intent. He was taken to an east London hospital….he remains in custody at an east London police station”, the police said.
Four male officers were taken to hospital suffering the effects of smoke inhalation but have since been discharged.
Inspector Jonathan Hinder of Waltham Forest Police said: “These officers showed great bravery to force entry into this property and bring a dangerous situation to a quick and successful conclusion. Without their swift actions, this incident could have had far more serious consequences and it once again demonstrates the dangers officers face as they carry out their daily duties.”
