Armed police were called to New College Swindon on Friday morning after receiving reports of a man seen with a knife, prompting a full lockdown of the campus.
Emergency Response
Emergency services arrived at the Queens Drive site at approximately 11am on Friday, 24 April 2026. Witnesses described seeing multiple police vehicles, including armed response units, converging on the area. Those inside the building were instructed to remain in place and stay out of sight.
Police Statement
Wiltshire Police confirmed that officers attended the scene following a report of a male seen with a knife. In an official statement, the force said: “We attended New College in Swindon at approximately 11am today following a report a male had been seen with a knife. Officers attended and two males were detained. Searches were carried out and no knife was found.”
College Response
The college implemented precautionary measures during the incident. A spokesperson for New College said: “We are currently managing an incident at our Queens Drive campus. Police are in attendance, and as a precaution, we have initiated a lockdown. Further updates will be shared here as soon as more information is available.”
Ongoing Investigation
It is not yet clear what led to the initial report, and enquiries are ongoing. The college has not provided further details about the two males detained or the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have assured the public that there is no ongoing threat.
