Police thank hero who tripped fleeing suspect

The identify of an unknown hero who stopped a man escaping police has been revealed through social media.

Lincolnshire Police used its SM accounts to thank their mystery helper after they were called to a report of a man allegedly wielding a knife in public on Saturday evening.

Officers armed with tasers were deployed to Waterside South just after 6pm and challenged the man who ran away.

A member of the public – now known to be Niall Howard - stepped forward and tripped the fugitive, taking him down to the floor so the officers were able to apprehend and arrest the suspect safely. 

Chief Superintendent Philip Baker, Head of Local Policing, said: “We’re not sure who the quick-thinking man was, but we are very grateful to him. Of course, our advice is not to put yourself in danger, and to call 999, but this man’s help meant the fleeing man was stopped in his tracks and officers were able to detain and arrest him. It was a particularly brave thing to do. 

“I’d also like to pass my thanks on to the person who called our Force Control Room too. 

“Society relies on all of us to do the right thing when we see something that is wrong, dangerous, suspicious etc and by taking the time to call he has alerted the police to a potentially dangerous man. 

“Here is a fine example of two members of our community who have done their bit to keep people safe. They should be extremely proud. 

“On this occasion the actions of this unknown man went above and beyond - thank you.”

The message of thanks was seen by Niall’s partner Grace Whitcombe who identified him after what she described as ‘a very eventful walk home’.

A 24-year-old man was arrested and charged with possession of a knife and will appear before Lincoln Magistrates on April 28