Police Chase Ends in Arrest After Maidstone Town Centre Smashed Up
A 23-year-old man has been arrested after going on a destructive spree through Maidstone town centre, using a fire extinguisher to smash the windows of multiple businesses — including a Sainsbury’s supermarket.
The chaos unfolded just before 8pm on Sunday, 11 May, with emergency calls flooding in to Kent Police reporting widespread criminal damage across Romney Place and King Street.
Fire Extinguisher Used to Wreck Shops and Police Car
Police say the suspect allegedly used the fire extinguisher as a weapon, smashing the windows of a Sainsbury’s before targeting other commercial properties nearby. The extinguisher was then reportedly thrown at officers, damaging a marked police vehicle during the confrontation.
A foot chase ensued, and officers quickly detained the suspect in the town centre.
Swift Police Response
Kent Police confirmed:
Within minutes, officers were at the scene where it is alleged the fire extinguisher was thrown at them and damaged a police vehicle. After a short pursuit, the 23-year-old man was detained and taken into custody.
No injuries have been reported, but the cost of the damage is believed to run into the thousands of pounds.
Where It Happened
- Sainsbury’s, Romney Place – Multiple large windows smashed
- King Street businesses – Additional commercial damage reported
- Police vehicle – Damaged during apprehension
Ongoing Investigation
The man remains in custody while police continue their investigation. He is expected to be interviewed on suspicion of criminal damage, assaulting an emergency worker, and causing damage to a police vehicle.
Police are asking any witnesses or local businesses with CCTV footage to come forward.
Call to Action
? Anyone with information is urged to contact Kent Police on 101 quoting reference 11-1301 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
