News
Man with crossbow arrested over Windsor Castle break-in
The 19-year-old was arrested on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon
The man who broke into the grounds of Windsor Castle armed with a crossbow yesterday has been arrested and detained under the Mental Health Act, police have said.
In a statement, the Met Police explain: “The man was taken into custody and has undergone a mental health assessment – he has since been sectioned under the Mental Health Act and remains in the care of medical professionals.
“Following a search of the man, a crossbow was recovered.”
Police responded to the security breach at around 8.30am on Christmas Day within the grounds of the castle, where the Queen was celebrating Christmas with with Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla.
There, the intruder – a nineteen-year-old man from Southampton – was arrested on suspicion of trespass and possession of an offensive weapon.
Superintendent Rebecca Mears told Sky News yesterday: “An investigation is ongoing following this incident and we are working with colleagues from the Metropolitan Police.
“The man has been arrested on suspicion of breach or trespass of a protected site and possession of an offensive weapon. He remains in custody at this time.
“We can confirm security processes were triggered within moments of the man entering the grounds and he did not enter any buildings.
“Members of the Royal Family have been informed about the incident.
“We do not believe there is a wider danger to the public.”