20-year-old charged after BB gun pointed at police officers following Preston chase

A man has been charged after a BB gun was pointed at police officers who had stopped a car on Brockholes Brow in Preston on Sunday night.

At 9.40pm, officers signalled for a Ford Fiesta to stop on New Hall Lane as it was thought to have illegal number plates. The driver failed to stop and a chase ensued, with officers intercepting the vehicle on Brockholes Brow using ‘tactical stop’ manoeuvres.

Lancashire Police said the driver exited the car and pointed a ‘handgun’ at officers. The firearm was later confirmed to be a BB gun. He was detained and officers also seized two knives, in addition to the imitation firearm.

A 20-year-old man from Chorley was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with a number of offences.

Anthony Woods, of Kirkstall Close, Chorley, has been charged with possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, nine offences of possession of a knife blade/sharp pointed article in a public place, possession of nitrous oxide for wrongful inhalation, dangerous driving, fraudulently use of a registration mark, driving without insurance and driving without a licence.

He has been remanded in custody to appear at Preston Magistrates Court today (June 23).

Three passengers in the car – a 20-year-old man from Preston, a 21-year-old man from Preston and a 21-year-old woman from Preston - who were arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon, have been released with no further action taken.

Bomb Squad called to Woods’ home

As part of police enquiries, Woods’ home address in Kirkstall Close, Chorley was searched. A suspected grenade was discovered and the bomb squad was called to the scene.

Lancashire Police said the device was found to be non-viable.

You can read our full report on the police chase and bomb squad house search here.