Bedfordshire Police are searching for multiple suspects who fled on foot following an eight-mile car chase that ended in a collision in Dunstable on Wednesday. Officers were initially called to Grebe Drive in Leighton Buzzard shortly before 15:30 BST following reports that a firearm had been discharged.
The pursuit and collision in Dunstable
After arriving at the scene, police identified a vehicle believed to be connected to the reported gunfire. When officers signaled for the driver to stop, the vehicle failed to comply, initiating a pursuit that spanned approximately 12.8 kilometers (eight miles). The chase concluded in Dunstable when the suspect vehicle crashed into an unrelated car on Porz Avenue. Specialist armed officers were involved in the pursuit, which ultimately occurred between Dunstable and Houghton Regis.
One man received treatment at the scene for minor injuries sustained during the collision. Following the crash, the occupants of the suspect vehicle abandoned the car and fled on foot. Local authorities have since implemented road closures between Boscombe Way and the Lovatt Road roundabout to allow emergency services to process the scene. Drivers have been advised to seek alternative routes.
Did You Know?
The incident prompted a temporary lockdown at the nearby Greenleas School. The school confirmed it would resume normal operations on Thursday and issued a statement thanking staff, parents, and children for their composure and calm during the event.
Police deploy scene guards as Operation Tanglewood search continues
Additional scene guards have been stationed at both the site on Grebe Drive and along the A505, which typically indicates ongoing evidence collection and search operations. A Bedfordshire Police spokesperson stated: Officers indicated for the driver to stop and a pursuit ensued. The car came to a stop in, when it collided with an unrelated vehicle.
The force has requested that anyone with information regarding the incident contact them via 999, citing Operation Tanglewood.
Community Impact
One local parent noted the disruption to the area, describing how children were briskly escorted home from school by parents rather than walking with friends as they usually would. The force acknowledged the public’s concern, stating: We understand this is a concerning incident but would like to reassure the public that a strong police presence will remain while initial enquiries take place.
Greenleas School reopens after police respond to firearm reports
Why was a school placed into lockdown?
Greenleas School was placed into lockdown as a precautionary measure shortly after police were called to the nearby reports of a firearm being discharged on Grebe Drive. The school has since confirmed it will reopen on Thursday.
What is the current status of the suspects?
The suspects are currently at large. After the vehicle they were operating collided with an unrelated car in Porz Avenue, the occupants fled the scene on foot, prompting an ongoing search by Bedfordshire Police.
How can the public assist the police?
The force has asked anyone with information to contact them. Witnesses or those with relevant information should call 999 and quote Operation Tanglewood when speaking with authorities.
Do you have further information regarding the events that occurred in Leighton Buzzard and Dunstable on Wednesday?
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