Female arrested following A14 closure in Ipswich

Following the closure of the A14 in Ipswich yesterday, police arrested a teenager in connection with the incident.

Officers were called at approximately 11:40am to reports of concern for the welfare of a female near Nacton.

A number of emergency services resources were deployed to the area, including police, negotiators, ambulance personnel, fire crew and National Highways officers.

The incident was safely resolved at approximately 4:25pm and the A14 reopened in both directions by 4:45pm.

A female aged in her teens was subsequently arrested at the scene on suspicion of causing a public nuisance in connection to the incident. She was taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning and has been released under investigation pending further enquiries.

In a separate incident during the road closure, officers were approached by a man who began shouting and displaying abusive behaviour towards police and negotiators.

He was arrested at the scene and taken to Martlesham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.

59-year-old Mark Wymer of Hurricane Place in Ipswich has been charged with obstructing a police officer in execution of their duty and with possessing a bladed article in public, namely a lock knife.

Wymer has been released on police bail to appear at Ipswich Magistrates’ Court on 18 March 2024.

Police would like to reassure the public that the decision to close the A14, whether by police or partners, is not taken lightly. The impact a closure will have on a town is considered, alongside any risk posed to the public and wider community, and police and partners take action to minimise this where possible.