Armed police threatened by ‘racially abusive man with gun’ in Rotherham

ARMED police were threatened by a "gun-wielding" man who racially abused another man while threatening him with a hammer in Rotherham town centre last night (Wednesday).

The 29-year-old suspect was arrested at the scene on suspicion of a racially-aggravated public order offence and possession of a firearm with intent to cause harm. 

He remained in police custody this morning.

Police confirmed officers had been called to Ship Hill, Rotherham, at around 7.15pm to reports that a man was racially abusing another man and threatening him with a hammer. 

“The suspect threatened police with what was believed to be a firearm,” a police spokeswoman said.

The firearm was later found to be an air pistol.

“No-one was injured in the incident,” the spokeswoman added.