Updated: Armed police siege ends in Halifax after man brandishes sword and handgun

A POLICE siege has ended after armed officers were called to reports of a man with a sword at a house in Halifax.
Police at the scene. Picture: Tom AndryszewskiPolice at the scene. Picture: Tom Andryszewski
Police at the scene. Picture: Tom Andryszewski

Armed officers were seen entering the house in Ovenden Way and gun shots were heard according to residents.

However West Yorkshire Police later said no shots were fired.

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A police spokesperson said: “Officers were called to an address on Ovenden Way at 11.47am after receiving a report of a man with a sword.”

Armed police began negotiations with the man, who appeared to brandish a sword and a handgun at officers from an upstairs window.

Police cordoned off the area as negotiations continued.

The force said the man was alone in the property and thought to be under the influence of alcohol and drugs.A police statement said: “A short time later the man disappeared from sight and was believed to have lapsed into unconsciousness.

“Concerned for his welfare, officers forced entry to the building and found the man lying on the floor.

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“Distraction devices were then deployed to allow officers to safely detain the man and medical attention was requested. No shots were fired.

Jordan Stick,31, a plumber from Ripon, said: “I was just visiting family friends when I heard a lot of screaming and I came out and saw him and I think he was carrying what looked like a knife.”

Niall Mitchell, 18, who lives on street said: “Something like this is so scary. You always hear about it but when it’s in your town it’s so unbelievable.

“There are so many kids that live down here including my sister and I wouldn’t want her seeing it.”.