Ashton Vale: People return home after bomb threat as man arrested

Ashton Vale: People return home after bomb threat as man arrested

After a bomb threat forced the evacuation of 63 properties in and around South Liberty Lane in Ashton Vale, south Bristol, residents have finally been allowed to return to their homes. The incident, which led to the evacuation on Tuesday evening, was prompted by reports of a man having access to potentially explosive items. A 21-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of making an explosive and for possession of cannabis. The culprit remains in custody.

Fortunately, a bomb disposal team was on site to assess the situation, and people were permitted to go back to their residences just after 03:00 BST once a precautionary 100m (328ft) cordon was lifted. Early investigative inquiries by the police indicated that the item found was not a viable explosive device. The initial report came after a man was noticed behaving suspiciously at an address on South Liberty Lane.

Residents were given the unsettling news that they could not return to their homes on Tuesday evening and were advised to find alternative accommodations or seek assistance from the council. The Ashton Vale Community Centre in Risdale Road opened its doors to support those affected, with about 50 individuals seeking refuge. Neighbour Alex Smethurst recounted spending the night anxiously piecing together 1,000-piece puzzles as they awaited updates on the situation.

A weary 70-year-old resident, Kevan Feltham, expressed relief upon returning home but highlighted the exhaustion and fear they experienced during the evacuation. Despite the trying circumstances, the residents maintained their composure and cooperated with the authorities. Superintendent Stephanie McKenna acknowledged the residents’ patience during the distressing ordeal and assured them that the police are dedicated to providing timely and accurate information to ensure their safety and well-being

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