A team of officers faced an armed and highly volatile suspect, placing themselves at significant risk to protect each other and the public.

In January 2025, police were called to reports of a male in possession of a hammer at Aldi on Queen Street, Boston, attempting to smash windows. While the incident was being reported, the male left the location and was seen walking onto Broadfield Street.

PC Christina Hall and DC Sabooha Richeux were dispatched to the incident in one vehicle, with Detective Inspector Nick Elmer attending in a second. As they approached the junction of Tannery Close, the suspect was sighted, and all officers prepared to confront an individual believed to be armed.

Upon arrival, DI Elmer quickly became aware that the situation was far more serious than initially reported. He observed what appeared to be a firearm in a holster and saw PC Hall preparing to step out from cover to engage the suspect. Recognising the immediate danger, he attempted to warn her, and she was able to withdraw back to the safety of the police vehicle.

DC Richeux manoeuvred their vehicle towards the end of Tannery Close, only to realise they had entered a dead end. Both officers were aware of the escalating risk and could hear DI Elmer providing updates over the radio, knowing he remained in close proximity to the armed suspect.

DI Elmer then saw the male holding a bottle with a rag inserted into it. The rag was ignited, and the suspect threw the improvised petrol bomb towards the police vehicle. It landed just in front of the car, creating a flash on impact.

The situation escalated further when the suspect produced a handgun, pulled back the slide and aimed it directly at DI Elmer while advancing towards him. At that moment, DI Elmer believed he was about to be shot.

Faced with limited options, he assessed the situation rapidly. Attempting to drive towards the suspect was not viable due to the short distance, so he reversed his vehicle to create space. Despite this, the suspect continued to advance, maintaining aim.

The suspect then turned and began walking in the direction of Tannery Close, where PC Hall and DC Richeux were positioned. DI Elmer remained in place, fully aware of the risk but determined not to allow the suspect to reach his colleagues. He resolved that, if necessary, he would either use his vehicle to stop the suspect or confront him directly on foot.

Fortunately, the suspect continued past the junction and moved away from the officers. DI Elmer maintained clear and composed communication with the control room, while PC Hall and DC Richeux implemented road closures and directed members of the public away from the area, aware that the suspect remained at large and posed an ongoing threat.

All three officers held their positions until armed officers arrived to take control of the situation.

Although none of the officers were physically injured, the incident had a significant impact, with the suspect remaining outstanding for a period of time before being identified and detained.

Throughout the incident, DI Elmer, PC Hall and DC Richeux demonstrated exceptional composure, teamwork and presence of mind in the face of a life-threatening situation involving both a firearm and an improvised incendiary device. Their actions ensured the safety of each other and the public, reflecting the highest standards of policing and professionalism under extreme pressure.

Chief Constable Paul Gibson said, “I want to express my profound pride in DI Nick Elmer, PC Christina Hall and DC Sabooha Richeux whose courage and professionalism during the shocking incident in Boston have led to their nomination for this award. 

“Despite facing an immediate and unpredictable threat, our officers acted with exceptional composure, placing themselves between danger and the public they serve. Their actions ensured that no members of the public were harmed, and their rapid, coordinated response helped secure the scene within minutes, even as the offender fled. The officers’ instinct, discipline, and unwavering commitment reflect the very best of policing and embody the values we stand for. 

“Being nominated for a bravery award is a fitting recognition of their selfless actions that night. On behalf of the entire force, I want to thank them for their remarkable bravery and reaffirm our collective pride in serving alongside colleagues who demonstrate such courage in the most challenging circumstances.”

Lincolnshire Police Federation Chair Helen Stamp said, “It is an absolute privilege to be able to nominate Nick, Christina and Sabooha, who have shown the utmost bravery during this incident. They have put themselves in harm's way in order to protect the public from this dangerous individual.

“They have continued to show extreme professionalism during the following days of the investigation, and have carried on their duties, despite knowing that the offender was at large, with his intent unknown. This is a perfect example of dedicated officers who serve the public of Lincolnshire. The whole of Lincolnshire Police are proud of their bravery and congratulates them on their nomination.”