The rector at St Martins Church in Overstrand has praised the police for safely ending a 25-hour long siege at the church. The incident involved a man with a knife who was experiencing significant mental health distress. Specialized police units, including negotiators and firearms officers, worked throughout the day to resolve the situation. The siege ended with police entering the church and arresting the man, who had used a machete to cause harm to a police officer. The man, in his 30s, is currently in custody and receiving medical care. The Rector expressed relief that the situation was resolved safely and thanked the police for their assistance.
The man involved in the siege is receiving medical care and attention while still in custody under investigation. The Rev Siân Reading, Rector at St Martin’s, expressed gratitude towards the police for their help and offered prayers for the individual involved in the incident. The church has not been allowed to assess any damage as the police investigation is ongoing. A church service was not held following the incident as worshippers gathered at a nearby location. Prayers have been requested for the individual involved and all those affected by the incident. The story is based on an article in the Eastern Daily Press.
The police were called to St Martins Church in Overstrand after reports of a man with a knife in the church in significant mental distress. The man had a dog with him, which is now being cared for. The area around the church was cordoned off, with the public warned to stay away, although there was no immediate danger. The siege lasted 25 hours with a large police presence maintained throughout. When police entered the church on Friday, they arrested the man who had used a machete to harm a police officer. Inside the church, a 12-inch machete and a sharpened flagpole resembling a spear were found. The man is now in custody and appeared in court over the incident.
Rev Reading, the Rector of the Poppyland Benefice, which includes St Martin’s Church, expressed relief that the situation was resolved safely and that the man is receiving the help he needs. The church was not able to conduct a service as planned due to the ongoing police investigation. Prayers have been requested for the individual involved in the incident and for all those who were affected. The community has come together to support each other during this challenging time. The incident highlights the importance of mental health awareness and support for those in distress.
