Police, divers and fire crews are responding to an emergency at Nantwich Aqueduct this morning.
Witnesses describe seeing police closing the aqueduct, close to Malbank School, to boaters and pedestrians during the incident at around 9am.
One witness report suggests someone was seen in possession of a firearm, but police have denied this at this stage.
A Cheshire Police spokesperson said: “Police were called to a canal boat on the Shropshire Union Canal in Nantwich this morning (1 August) following reports of concern for welfare. Police are currently at the scene dealing with the incident.
“No firearms have been seen. Police remain on scene dealing with incident and there is no wider risk to the public at this time.”
The aqueduct is where the Shropshire Union Canal crosses Welsh Row and is a busy entrance into the town.
This weekend, it is due to host the popular Floating Market on the canal between 10am and 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.
It is organised by the Roving Canal Traders Association, and is due to take place along the Nantwich canal embankment opposite Nantwich Marina services.
The Roving Canal Traders Association said today they were unaware of the incident.
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WOW misinformation comments, that’s why stuff is best left to the police etc etc. All is well, all over and done with.
Im Gareth Hardy, I’m a local busker here and the man has now been detained
Near the school my son will attend !!! Really
Sounds like this gun weilding maniac is well known in the local boating community. As a boater from out of the area, about to travel through, I’d certainly like to know which boat this was so I can give it a very wide birth! Anyone care to shed some light?
All over… one in custody.
I’m a boater here and the guy is known for firearms the police have took this long because officers a scared of shooting him in case they the police get jailed, this has gone on since 2am this morning
Given the few facts available, it looks like a sudden unexpected death or suicide aboard one of the canal boats.
If so, RIP.