Man detained after machete threat reports
AMACHETE-WIELDING man was detained by police in Ormskirk after attempting to attack another man.
Lancashire Police responded after multiple sightings of the man carrying the weapon in the Ruff Lane area at around 8am on Tuesday (August 2).
Police closed off a section of Ruff Lane near Mill Street, while ambulance crews were also called out.
No-one was injured and the man was detained under the Mental Health Act and taken to a secure unit.
Staff at the nearby Ruff Lane Day Nursery had told the Advertiser they had been left in the dark during the incident, only hearing information from concerned parents who had seen rumours on social media.
Students and staff at Edge Hill University had also been warned to stay away from the area while the incident was ongoing.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: “We were called around 8am following an incident in Ruff Lane, Ormskirk.
“Officers attended after reports a man had attempted to attack another male with a machete.
“A 44-year-old man from Ormskirk was detained by police under the Mental Health Act and is currently in a secure unit.
“No injuries were reported and enquiries are continuing.
“Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log reference 264 of August 2.”
Residents were quick to express their shock on social media after the incident.
Alexander Toal said: “Horrible to think about the machete attack in Ormskirk. Hoping everyone is safe” and Becka wrote on Twitter: “Man with a machete on the loose in Ruff Woods?! Ormskirk what’s happened to you??!”