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Sean O’Meara, 37, was critically injured on Monday night (7 July) during a major armed police operation near the Park Gate Inn, in the village of Hollingbourne, just off the A20 near Maidstone.
Sean, reportedly wearing body armour and a gas mask, was armed with a chainsaw and what appeared to be a homemade firearm or improvised explosive device, according to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
His mother, Catherine O’Meara, issued an emotional statement saying:
“We are heartbroken by the events that occurred. Our son remains in critical condition and our focus is entirely on him as we pray for his recovery.
We are helping with the police investigation and thank our friends and neighbours for their support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Standoff and Armed Response
The operation began after officers tried to arrest O’Meara on suspicion of assault at his home. He refused to surrender, leading to unarmed officers retreating and armed units arriving around 7.15pm.
The situation escalated quickly. O’Meara was reportedly shot with baton rounds, hid behind a hedge, and was then confronted by police dogs. As he continued moving toward officers with the chainsaw, he was shot again – this time with live ammunition, sustaining wounds to his arm and abdomen.
He was taken to hospital, where his injuries were deemed not life-threatening but possibly life-changing.
A chainsaw was recovered at the scene, along with a suspicious device, which was made safe by the British Army’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.
Massive Emergency Response and Investigation
The standoff triggered a massive emergency operation involving:
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Armed police and specialist firearms teams
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Counterterrorism officers
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National Crime Agency personnel
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Bomb disposal units
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Forensic and intelligence officers
A 100-metre cordon was erected around the Park Gate Inn and a nearby home. Evidence bags and forensic shields were visible outside the residence. The A20 remained closed in both directions, causing major traffic disruption across Tuesday morning.
The IOPC confirmed an independent investigation is underway.
IOPC Director Amanda Rowe said:
“Police shootings are rare, but we are treating this with the utmost seriousness. No officers are under investigation for misconduct or criminality at this stage.”
Official Police Statement
A Kent Police spokesperson added:
“Officers attended a property in Ashford Road, Hollingbourne, to conduct an arrest on an outstanding warrant unrelated to terrorism.
During the incident, a man in his 30s was shot and taken to hospital. The area was made safe with support from EOD. A referral was made to the IOPC, which is investigating.”
Residents nearby were told to stay indoors or vacate the area. Some were caught inside the Park Gate Inn and asked to leave for safety reasons.
This remains a developing story. The road closure between Greenway Court Road and B2163 Penfold Hill remains in place. Motorists are advised to avoid the area.
We will continue to provide updates as more information is released by authorities.
