Brave Bystander Attempts to Foil Hastings Knife Robbery; 26-Year-Old Suspect Arrested

A dramatic robbery unfolded at a retail shop in Hastings, East Sussex, leading to the arrest of a 26-year-old suspect thanks to a combination of police action and public intervention. The incident took place when a man armed with a knife entered the shop and threatened staff members before stealing items from the premises.

In a courageous effort to prevent the thief from escaping, a local member of the public—described by witnesses as a "have-a-go hero"—attempted to barricade the shop's entrance. The bystander tried to block the suspect inside the store until law enforcement arrived. Although the suspect managed to force his way out of the shop, the delay proved crucial in aiding the police response.

Sussex Police officers arrived on the scene quickly and, following a brief pursuit, arrested the 26-year-old suspect in connection with the robbery and weapon offenses. Police expressed their gratitude to the member of the public for their bravery but reminded residents to prioritize their safety during such incidents. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.