A terrifying confrontation involving weapons, including a firearm, forced the lockdown of a Greggs bakery in Birmingham, with staff praised for protecting terrified customers, among them mothers with young children.
Panic on Sheldon Heath Road
The shocking disorder unfolded in broad daylight on Friday, December 19, outside a row of shops at The Radleys, off Sheldon Heath Road in Sheldon. West Midlands Police were alerted shortly before 12:55pm following reports of a fight where weapons were seen.
Witnesses described seeing two men fighting outside the popular bakery chain. Panic spread rapidly when an onlooker was heard shouting, "He's got a gun." Multiple people reported seeing a firearm and hearing what they believed to be a gunshot just before 1pm, causing shoppers to dive for cover.
Quick-Thinking Staff Hailed as Heroes
In a rapid response to the danger, Greggs staff members demonstrated remarkable presence of mind. They locked the shop's doors and pulled down the security shutters, creating a barrier between the violence outside and the customers inside.
One witness, who was in the shop with her two-year-old child, recounted the fear. "I ran straight to the back of Greggs - did not want to hang around to see the outcome," she said online. "One of the nice workers suggested we go in that back room for safety and lock the door. There were people having panic attacks."
Another customer, inside with her daughter, commended the staff's bravery. "Luckily the woman behind the counter lock[ed] the door and put the shutters down. We all went into the back. She was absolutely brilliant. Kept us all safe. There were babies in prams," the witness stated, adding, "The gun went off - it made the people panic."
Police Investigation Underway
West Midlands Police have confirmed an investigation is active following the "disorder with weapons." A police spokeswoman appealed for information, asking the public to call 101 and quote incident number 2463 of 19 December. Alternatively, information can be given anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
As of now, no arrests have been made and inquiries are ongoing. The incident has sparked deep concern among local residents about safety in the area. One witness expressed their dismay, saying, "Just not safe around Sheldon and certainly not to bring kids up." Fortunately, no injuries were reported among those sheltering inside the Greggs store.
BirminghamLive has contacted Greggs for an official comment on the incident and the actions of their staff.
