Eastleigh armed police: Man arrested after standoff

Officers were called to the residential street just before 2.40pm on Tuesday, September 24, as police officers were seen with firearms and riot shields, surrounding a property on the road.

Following a lengthy standoff, police were seen arresting a suspect before reopening the road shortly afterwards.

Hampshire Constabulary has now confirmed a 59-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of possessing a knife blade or sharp pointed object in a public place and possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

A police spokesperson said: “Yesterday afternoon officers attended a house in Stranding Street after we were called about the concern of the welfare of a man inside a property.

“It was reported he had a firearm in the address with him, where he was the only one present.

“As part of our response, we closed the street, and we have now arrested a 59-year-old man from Eastleigh on suspicion of possessing a knife blade or sharp pointed object in a public place and possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

“He is in custody at this time and the road has now reopened.”

READ MORE: Armed police close residential road in 'firearms incident'

Residents were left in shock as the incident played out, with some being evacuated from their homes, as one person commented: “Nothing like this ever happens around here, I’m totally shocked.”

Chief Inspector Matt Paling, district commander for Eastleigh, added: “Seeing a large police response and our specialist teams in attendance will have understandably left people worried about what may be happening in their neighbourhood.

"Our teams have responded quickly and professionally to resolve this contained incident as soon as possible, with no wider threat to the public.

"I want to thank everyone for their patience yesterday afternoon, as I know the closures we had to put in place will have caused disruption and frustration for residents."