Calm in Crisis: Wigan response officer commended for his bravery
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During what were already the closing stages of a demanding night shift, PC Thomas Fairbrother-Wilcock demonstrated exceptional bravery when he was deployed to urgent reports of a male actively stabbing members of the public in Wigan town centre.
Initial information was limited, but reports rapidly escalated, indicating that there were multiple victims, an unknown motive and that the suspect was still at armed with a knife, posing an immediate and serious threat to the public.
As he arrived in the town centre alone, PC Fairbrother-Wilcock has since reflected on the sheer scale and fear of that moment.
Turning a corner, he was confronted by around 30 members of the public running towards him, many crying, injured and covered in blood. The reality of the situation became instantly clear: a violent attacker was still nearby, and lives were at risk.
Despite being alone, facing an armed suspect, multiple casualties and extreme uncertainty, Thomas did not hesitate. With full awareness of the danger to himself, he relied on his training, tactical communication skills and calm, courageous decision‑making to locate and safely detain the offender, preventing any further harm to the public.
His actions required him to put himself directly in harm’s way, demonstrating outstanding personal bravery in the face of a terrifying and fast‑moving incident. The swift intervention by Thomas, supported by PC Lisa Naylor, who courageously broke away from hospital watch to assist, directly protected members of the public and emergency service colleagues.
The offender, Charles McMurray (23/08/1989) of Satchel Close, Wigan, later pleaded guilty to multiple counts of Section 18 wounding with intent, threatening a person with a bladed article and threats to kill. He was sentenced to nine years and nine months’ imprisonment. All victims survived the attack - a testament to the decisive and courageous actions taken on the night.
At the recent Wigan District Awards, PC Fairbrother Wilcock was formally recognised for his exceptional courage and selfless actions, responding alone to an active and highly dangerous incident, and was presented with a Bravery Award.
Speaking following the award, Police Officer Thomas Fairbrother‑Wilcock said: “I was really happy to be recognised. It means a lot to know you’ve done a good job and that it’s been seen by supervisors and colleagues.
“It also helps remind people of what response officers can be faced with at any moment, and the risks we take every day.
“I know I’m the one who received the award, but honestly, I don’t know what I’d have done if PC Lisa Naylor hadn’t come when she did. Her decision to get to me made a huge difference, and I’m genuinely grateful for her support.
“Looking back, the incident was terrifying. In that moment, though, there was no time to be fearful, I just had to focus and do my job to protect people. It’s something that will always stay with me, and a day I won’t ever forget.”
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