A pair of officers who placed themselves between an armed suspect and members of the public following a fatal stabbing have been nominated for the national Police Bravery Awards 2026.

On the night in May 2025, police received multiple calls reporting a stabbing in the village of Littlethorpe, just outside Leicester. Two PC’s, both authorised firearms officers, were nearby and responded immediately.

Upon arrival, the officers saw a woman lying in the road. The victim, had sustained multiple stab wounds following a prolonged and violent attack carried out by her son in front of her husband and neighbours.

Members of the public directed officers to the suspect, stating that he was still armed with a knife and had entered a nearby property.

PC A immediately went to provide first aid to the victim, while PC B moved towards the address to locate the suspect. As he approached, he observed blood within the garage area, including on the walls and door, indicating the severity of the incident.

The suspect then moved through the property and into the garage, approaching PC B. He was holding a large kitchen knife in his right hand and an unknown item in his left.

PC B drew his Taser and, maintaining a calm and controlled approach, issued clear instructions for the suspect to stop and drop the weapon. Despite this, the suspect advanced towards him.

Positioning himself between the suspect and nearby members of the public, PC B maintained his ground, recognising the immediate risk posed by an individual who had already carried out a fatal attack.

When the suspect advanced again, PC B discharged his Taser. The suspect fell to the ground but initially retained hold of the knife, eventually releasing it. He continued to show non-compliance, attempting to reach for the weapon again, requiring PC B to maintain control using the Taser.

The suspect then stood up and appeared to comply momentarily, placing his hands on his head. However, as officers moved in to restrain him, he became aggressive and resisted arrest.

PC A joined in the effort to detain the suspect, during which he was assaulted. Multiple further Taser deployments were required as the suspect continued to resist and failed to respond effectively. After sustained efforts, the officers were able to bring him under control and secure him in handcuffs.

Following his arrest, the suspect made comments suggesting an awareness of the potential for officers to use firearms.

Despite the immediate and life-threatening circumstances, both officers chose not to discharge their firearms, instead resolving the situation using proportionate force. Their actions ensured the suspect was safely detained without further loss of life.

Tragically, despite the efforts of PC A and paramedics, the victim could not be saved.

Throughout the incident, both officers demonstrated composure, restraint and decisive action in an extremely volatile situation. By placing themselves between an armed offender and the public, and successfully disarming and detaining him, they prevented further harm to others, including the suspect himself.

Leicestershire Police Federation Chair Andy Spence said: “These officers bravely put their lives on the line, standing between the public and an armed suspect who had just killed someone in the street. 

“The suspect had a large kitchen knife in his hand, resisting arrest and assaulting an officer. Taser had no effect on him despite it being used multiple times. 

“The officers bravely rushed the suspect and took him to the floor. Their actions that day meant that the public were kept safe and that the suspect could face justice. They stood, bravely facing an armed suspect, not backing down. 

“We are proud of them and their actions highlight the brave and difficult choices officers make every day.”

T/Chief Constable David Sandall said: “Both these officers acted with immense bravery in a very difficult and sensitive situation.  With no regard for their own safety, they detained a dangerous, armed individual.

“I am extremely proud that they have been nominated for this award and that their courage is being recognised.”