A hostage crisis at a Dorset primary school ended with the death of the gunman on police orders.St Mark’s school, Bournemouth, was immediately evacuated when the gunman ran into the building seeking refuge.
Armed police and medical assistance were sent to St Marks as over an hour long negotiation began.
A class of first grade students and three teachers escaped with minor injuries after being held hostage until 2:35pm, when police were able to compromise for their release.
The man, described as being a white middle-aged male, with a bald head and of medium build, was demanding his wife be at the scene.
Assistant Chief Constable Allan Rose said police were adamant to “resolve the matter peacefully” and the gunman was able to speak to his wife over a radio link at 3:15pm after she was escorted from Dorchester.
Police were “forced to shoot the gunman when he raised his gun in a threatening manor, refusing police commands.” A police surgeon pronounced him dead at the scene, from 17 gun shots.
Eyewitness Ian Rogerson, 58, has a direct view over the school from his second storey window. At 1:15pm he was alerted to the action when one man was chasing another screaming: “Stay away from my wife! I’m going to get you!” He then shot the victim in his behind, who dived into a bush for safety. The area between Kinson Road and the University Roundabout was closed as soon as police arrived at the scene.
Mr Rogerson saw pupils “running from the school screaming and looking very upset”. They were taken to Bournemouth University where they were checked by paramedics as a precaution and safely reunited with their parents.
Dorset Police wish to reassure the public that “their intention is to preserve lives”. There will be a further inquest by the home office.
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