London man arrested over Northampton school lockdown threat
A 46-year-old man was detained on suspicion of malicious communications following a security incident.
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A 46-year-old man from London was arrested on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, in connection with a lockdown at Earl Spencer Primary School in Northampton. Northamptonshire Police stated the arrest was made on suspicion of malicious communications following a threatening phone call received by the school.
School lockdown procedures
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The lockdown at Earl Spencer Primary School commenced at approximately 11:15 am on Wednesday, 23 September 2026. The school, located on Streatfield Road, implemented its lockdown procedures as a precautionary measure after receiving the call. Police were subsequently contacted to investigate the incident.
Officers from a police force area outside Northamptonshire made the arrest on Wednesday evening. The 46-year-old man remains in police custody. Chief Inspector Nic Davis-Lyons of Northamptonshire Police said the arrest was intended to provide reassurance to pupils, parents, and school staff.
Chief Inspector Davis-Lyons added that any threat made against a school is taken with extreme seriousness. He thanked the school for its safeguarding procedures and its priority in keeping pupils and staff safe. He also acknowledged the patience and support of parents, school staff, and partner agencies.
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Police presence and community reassurance
Northamptonshire Police confirmed that local neighbourhood policing officers would maintain a presence at Earl Spencer Primary School in the coming days. This presence is intended to offer reassurance to the school community. Residents with concerns were encouraged to speak with these officers.
Separate incident at another school
In a separate, unrelated incident on the same day, St James Primary School in Northampton was also placed into an emergency lockdown. This occurred after a man was seen carrying an item that appeared to be a firearm, which was later identified as a toy gun.
Questions this report answers
+Why was Earl Spencer Primary School placed into lockdown?
Earl Spencer Primary School was placed into lockdown on 23 September 2026 after receiving a threatening phone call. The school implemented its lockdown procedures as a precautionary measure to safeguard pupils and staff.
+Has anyone been arrested in connection with the incident?
Yes, a 46-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion of malicious communications. The arrest was made by officers from a police force area outside Northamptonshire on Wednesday evening.
+Will police be present at the school?
Northamptonshire Police stated that local neighbourhood policing officers will maintain a presence at Earl Spencer Primary School over the coming days. This is to provide reassurance to the school community.
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