Northumbria Police Federation chair Nick Munnelly has wished PC Will Hunter good luck ahead of this year’s Bravery Awards.
Will has been nominated after placing himself in significant danger to prevent an armed offender from escaping and posing a further threat to the public.
He was attacked on 10 August 2024 during a routine vehicle stop at a petrol station in the Leam Lane area of Gateshead.
Will had identified the vehicle was being driven without insurance and informed the driver it would be seized.
The driver, Matthew Bello, attempted to return to the car but Will positioned himself to prevent him getting in.
Bello, who was considerably larger than Will, launched a sustained and violent assault, biting his hand while his police radio and body-worn video became detached from his body armour.
PAVA spray did not stop the offender, who grabbed a machete from the back seat of the car and attacked Will’s upper body with it.
The officer remained in his position to prevent Bello from entering the vehicle, defending himself with his arms.
Taser
Will’s Taser did not incapacitate the offender, who continued his attack.
At this point, Will was exhausted and, despite his incredible bravery and attempts to detain the driver, was eventually overpowered.
The offender fled the scene in his car, ramming Will’s police vehicle and leaving him injured on the road.
However, due to the swift response of Will’s colleagues, Bello was arrested nearby.
Bello admitted wounding with intent, possession of a knife in a public place, dangerous driving, and no insurance, and was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment at Newcastle Crown Court.
Will’s actions were recognised with the Force’s Bravery and Lifesaver Award at the Pride in Policing Awards.
Bravery Awards
They have also brought him a nomination for the Police Federation of England and Wales Bravery Awards, which take place in London this month.
Branch chair Nick said: “PC Will Hunter confronted an armed offender and was subjected to a shockingly violent and unprovoked attack with a machete.
“Despite being struck by the machete, Will refused to back down and risked his life to protect the public and take his attacker off the streets.
“We are incredibly proud that Will is representing Northumbria at the Police Federation of England and Wales Bravery Awards – his resolve and courage that day, despite the perilous situation he was in, demonstrated the best of policing and this recognition is thoroughly deserved.
“And on behalf of the branch, I wish him the very best of luck.”
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