Armed police were dispatched to Teignmouth, a coastal town, over the weekend in response to reports of threats involving a firearm. Social media users raised concerns about a “man with a gun” spotted near Back Beach on Saturday evening, causing unease in the community and prompting Devon and Cornwall Police to take action.
Authorities were alerted at 8:55 pm following an assault report in Queen Street close to the town center. A “non-viable firearm” was confiscated by the police, with no additional details disclosed at this time. A man in his 60s was apprehended on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, affray, and possessing an imitation firearm by a police armed response team. He has since been released on bail.
The victim of the assault sustained a facial laceration, according to law enforcement. Witnesses described a significant police presence near the Ship Inn pub on Queen Street, noting that the road was temporarily closed during the incident.
A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police stated, “We received a call at 8:55 pm on Saturday, May 30 regarding an assault in Queen Street, Teignmouth. It was also reported that a firearm was involved and threats were made. Armed officers intervened, detaining a man in his 60s on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, affray, and possession of an imitation firearm. He has been released on police bail. The victim suffered a facial injury, and a non-viable firearm was recovered at the scene.”