Armed police and an air ambulance rushed to Whitefield in Greater Manchester today after reports of a police incident on Bury New Road. Witnesses observed smashed cars, undercover police vehicles, and a white car surrounded by law enforcement at the scene. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) disclosed that officers tried to stop a vehicle at 3 pm, but the driver attempted to flee, prompting a firearms officer to discharge one round.
The driver, sustaining a non-life-threatening arm injury, was promptly transported to a hospital. Subsequently, a 20-year-old suspect was apprehended on suspicion of involvement in the distribution of Class A drugs. Local residents reported hearing gunshots around 3:30 pm, followed by the arrival of an air ambulance.
Authorities advised motorists to avoid the area as traffic congestion increased. Bury Council issued a statement urging people to steer clear of Bury New Road near M60 junction 17 due to the ongoing police operation. Inrix, a traffic monitoring site, reported closures and heavy traffic in both directions on A56 Bury New Road.
Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop assured the public of their safety, emphasizing that no civilians or officers were harmed during the incident. GMP reiterated that investigations are ongoing, with a focus on the arrested individual’s alleged drug-related activities. The incident led to heightened police presence in the vicinity, with officers available to address community concerns and provide assistance.
The incident unfolded when GMP attempted to intercept a vehicle, resulting in the driver’s evasion and subsequent arrest. The situation caused temporary road closures and disruptions in the area. Witnesses recounted hearing gunshots, aligning with reports from local news sources.