Unarmed Policewomen Killed In Manchester

Two unarmed police constables have been killed in a gun and grenade attack in Greater Manchester.

Fiona Bone, 32, and Nicola Hughes, 23, were on a routine call to an apparent burglary when it is believed a grenade was detonated and 13 bullets fired.

Sir Peter Fahy, Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police, said a call to police was made alleging a raid had been committed at an address in Hattersley and, when the officers arrived, they were attacked with a gun and a grenade.

Sir Peter said PC Bone was a "calm, gentle woman", an "excellent bobby" and had been in the middle of planning her wedding.

He also paid tribute to PC Hughes, describing her as a "chatterbox" and a "great bobby" who was "always smiling".

Sir Peter said the force was "absolutely devastated" by the shootings and that there was nothing in the burglary report to suggest that armed police would be required.

Police said PC Bone had served in the force for five years. She had spoken to her partner in the morning about sending out wedding invites.

Sir Peter said: "When she joined the force she was quiet and reserved but then came out of her shell."

He described her as "calm, collected and professional."

PC Hughes, who had been with the force for three years, was a karate enthusiast and was described her as "bubbly" and "always smiling, even after a night shift".

Greater Manchester Police have set up an online book of condolence to enable people to leave messages for the pair's families, friends and colleagues.

A suspect was arrested at Hyde police station in Greater Manchester.

Dale Cregan, 29, was wanted in connection with the deaths of David Short, 46, and his son Mark, 23.

David Short was killed at his home in Folkestone Road East, Clayton, Manchester, on August 10, while Mark died after being shot at the Cotton Tree pub in nearby Droylsden, on May 25.

Cregan is being questioned over the killings of the two police officers and also the deaths of David Short and Mark Short.