Teen, 19, fighting for life after falling from balcony ‘while fleeing cops’ as boy, 14, raced to hospital
A TEENAGER is fighting for his life in hospital after falling from a balcony while allegedly fleeing police.
The 19-year-old man suffered critical injuries after falling off an “upper balcony from height” in Tameside, Manchester, said cops.
A 14-year-old boy was also seriously injured in the same fall on Saturday night, according to Greater Manchester Police.
It came after police received reports of a “group of males with machetes making threats towards individuals” at the location.
Upon arrival, at around 7.20pm, officers gave chase to three males who “tried to leave” the property, with one of the three escaping through a lower balcony.
The 19-year-old who fell from the balcony then sustained serious injuries.
Footage from the scene showed emergency services at the foot of Bentinck House, a 12 storey tower block on the outskirts of Ashton town centre.
Three people have been arrested and drugs and a weapon have also been seized, said police.
Witnesses reported seeing armed police and an air ambulance at the scene.
Det Supt Gareth Jenkins from the Tameside District said: “The two injured parties, aged 14 and 19, have been taken to hospital for treatment of serious injuries, with the older male in a critical condition.
“These males are under the detention of officers pending their medical treatment, and another male has been arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs.
“Enquiries are ongoing to determine all of those involved and the full circumstances of what has happened in the lead up to the incident. Suspected drugs and a weapon have been recovered.
“A small scene remains in place at the property and residents in the area should expect to see further police activity.
“Anyone with any information which has not yet been provided to us, or with any concerns, should speak to officers on the ground.
“I’d like to reassure the community that this incident is believed to be between individuals known to one another, with no wider risk to the community.”
Police are looking for any witnesses to come forward with any information that could aid their inquiries.
Anyone with information is being urged to call 101 quoting incident number 2849 of May 31 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.