Police save human fireball
POLICE have arrested a 23-year-old Cranleigh man following an incident in Horseshoe Lane, during which a baton round was discharged.
A man was challenged by firearms officers after setting himself alight, according to a police press statement.
The statement said a baton round was used to stun him, so that officers could approach the man and smother the flames using their hands and bodies.
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Two firearms officers were treated at the Royal Surrey County Hospital for smoke inhalation and minor burns to their hands; they were released this morning.
A man was also treated for minor burns, which could have been more serious had officers not intervened.
He was also discharged on Thursday morning and has been arrested on suspicion of affray.
Police said: "A full investigation into the circumstances is underway and a firearms post-incident procedure has been initiated to review the actions taken.
"Baton rounds are a specially designed less-lethal impact round, made of a plastic compound."
Surrey Police uses a round called an 'Attenuating Energy Projectile', which have a void nose-area designed to deform on impact with a hard surface - making them even safer than other baton rounds available.
They are fired from specialised single-shot baton launcher.
For comprehensive coverage of all the stories making the local news, read Friday's edition of the West Sussex County Times newspaper. Website users who wish to purchase a copy of the County Times newspaper but live outside our circulation area can do so by telephoning 01403 751200 and asking for reception. The cost of the newspaper plus postage in England is 1.53 which can be paid for by credit card. Overseas rates are also available, on request.
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Weather for Crawley
Saturday 26 May 2012
Today
Sunny
Temperature: 12 C to 25 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny
Temperature: 11 C to 24 C
Wind Speed: 13 mph
Wind direction: East
