Teen charged following reports of man with gun near Wigan schools
A number of schools went into lockdown on Monday afternoon
Last updated 24th Apr 2024
A teenager has been charged by police investigating reports of a man with a gun near a number of schools in Wigan.
On Monday 22 April, officers were called to reports of a man making threats with a suspected firearm in the Billinge area.
A number of nearby schools kept children inside while the incident was dealt with.
No one was injured, and the incident was isolated with no threat to the wider community, Greater Manchester Police said.
In their latest update, detectives have confirmed they've charged 19-year-old Harry Daley of Bankfield, Skelmersdale with the following:
• Possess an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.
• Send letter / communication / article conveying indecent / offensive message.
He has been remanded in police custody and is due to appear at Wigan and Leigh Magistrates Court on Wednesday.
Detective Inspector Craig Hurst, from GMP's Wigan district, said: “This incident was undoubtedly a worrying one for the local community and we deployed to the scene along with armed officers as this was a credible threat at the time.
“Once we had established the circumstances of the incident, we acted quickly on the information that we had and apprehended a suspect who had fled back to their home address in Skelmersdale.
“We would like to reassure the public that this is an isolated incident and there is no threat to the wider community.
“I would like to thank the schools in the local area for their assistance, in acting appropriately to protect the children in their care.
“Extra patrol officers have been deployed, both on foot and in patrol cars. These officers will be there over the next few days and they are there to keep you safe, If you have any concerns, they will be happy to provide reassurance and listen to any of your queries.
“If you have any information that could assist officers you should call 0161 856 7094 quoting log number 1906 of 22/04/2024.”
"You can also report information and crimes on our website using the 'report' tool.
"Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency."