Gun shots disrupt UK court hearing

SLOUGH, England (CNN) -- At least two armed men burst into a UK court room Thursday and fired several shots before fleeing with two men who were appearing on burglary charges.

The incident happened at East Berkshire magistrates court, in Slough, west of London.

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said: "A number of people entered a court and assisted the escape of two men who were appearing before the court.

"During the incident a firearm was discharged several times. A police officer was injured in the incident. No one else was injured."

The spokesman said the injured police officer was struck over the head with the butt of a gun.

A third defendant appearing in court with the two unnamed escapees did not flee with the gunmen, police said.

The police spokesman added: "Police are currently searching Slough and the surrounding areas for all the people involved in the incident."

For more Europe news, myCNN.com will bring you news from the areas and subjects you select.

Thames Valley Police

Note: Pages will open in a new browser window

External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.