Swift arrest following catapult incident in Ashford

A suspect has been swiftly arrested in Ashford after he allegedly damaged a moving vehicle using a catapult.

On Monday 20 July 2026 at around 3.30pm, a car was travelling along Stanhope Road when the windscreen was smashed by a projectile. The driver, who had 3 children in the car, pulled over to the side of the road and reported the incident to the police.

Patrols immediately attended the area to search for those responsible and, within half an hour, had arrested a 17-year-old boy in Otterden Close.

Officers also seized a catapult and a bag of metal ball bearings, along with a small amount of cannabis.

The teenager was later released on bail with conditions not to return to the Stanhope area, whilst enquiries are completed.

Officers are appealing to anyone with relevant information, who has not yet spoken to police, to come forward. Witnesses, including those with dashcam footage, should contact Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/118082/26.