Arrest after hoax device threat at Paignton Library
Churston Library was evacuated as precaution while police carried out enquiries
Last updated 2nd Oct 2026
A man has been arrested after what police believe was a hoax device threat at a library in Paignton.
Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called to Churston Library at around 11:50am this morning after a report that a device had been placed at the premises.
As a precaution the site was evacuated and a cordon put in place while officers carried out enquiries and assessed the information received.
The cordon has since been lifted and those affected have been allowed to return to the area.
In an update just before 4pm this afternoon (2 October) a spokesperson for the force said officers has found no evidence of any explosive device and the "report is now believed to have been a hoax."
A man in his 40s from Paignton has been arrested on suspicion of offences relating to the incident and remains in police custody.
The force spokesperson added: "We recognise that incidents of this nature can cause concern within the community and would like to thank members of the public, local businesses and residents for their patience and cooperation while officers dealt with the incident."