Why did armed police respond to a home in Southend-on-Sea?

Armed police responded to a home in Southend-on-Sea due to reports of gunshots and a person shouting 'I've been shot,' which caused concern for potential injury.

What caused the commotion that led to the police response?

The commotion was caused by a person playing the video game Call of Duty with powerful speakers at a high volume.

Were any firearms involved in the Southend-on-Sea incident?

No firearms were involved in the incident; police confirmed no firearms were present and no one had sustained any injuries.

Home / Crime and Justice / Gamer's Loud Call of Duty Triggers Armed Police Response

Gamer's Loud Call of Duty Triggers Armed Police Response

20 Apr

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Summary

Armed police responded to reports of gunshots at a home.
The noise was traced to a video game player using loud speakers.
No firearms were present and no injuries were reported.

Gamer's Loud Call of Duty Triggers Armed Police Response

Armed police, paramedics, and an air ambulance were urgently sent to a Southend-on-Sea home on Saturday afternoon after a concerned resident reported hearing gunshots and a cry of "I've been shot." Officers, some wearing balaclavas and one carrying a chainsaw, were prepared to force entry into the flat.

However, the situation was quickly resolved when responders confirmed that the noise originated from a video game, specifically Call of Duty, being played with high-volume speakers. Essex Police stated that no firearms were present and no injuries had occurred. The 999 call was understood to have been made with genuine concern for safety.