A street warden in Weston-super-Mare has been hailed as a hero after tackling a teenager believed to be armed with a stolen knife.
Simon Vowles took swift action on Wednesday, February 11, after reports came in that a knife had been stolen from a store on Regent Street around 12:50 pm. Simon pursued and detained the suspect, preventing any further danger in the area.
According to a local business owner who spoke on Facebook, Simon “went above and beyond in his role as street warden” to stop the suspect. During the confrontation, the teenager slashed at Simon with the knife, damaging his clothing but, thankfully, Simon emerged uninjured.
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Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that a teenage boy was arrested on suspicion of theft, battery, and threatening with a blade in a public place. The youth has been released on conditional bail pending further investigations.
James Clayton, Councillor for Weston-super-Mare South, praised Simon for his “exceptional bravery and swift actions.” He praised Simon for immediately disarming the suspect, ensuring the knife could not harm anyone else. Councillor Clayton also assisted Simon in restraining the teenager until police arrived.
PCSO Supervisor Jakub Pietroczuk expressed gratitude for Simon’s professionalism, underscoring the police force’s commitment to tackling knife crime, especially involving young people. He emphasized the importance of early intervention and community effort to prevent such incidents and create safer environments.
Authorities urge anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to contact Avon and Somerset Police at 101 or via their website, referencing incident number 5226039501.