Man accused of ‘culpable and reckless conduct’ after ‘chemicals’ police probe

Darren Querns appeared at Hamilton Sheriff Court.

The case was called at Hamilton Sheriff Court (Jane Barlow/PA) (PA Archive)

A man appeared in court charged with culpable and reckless conduct to the danger of life after dozens of people were evacuated from their homes when “potentially hazardous chemicals” were found in a flat in Glasgow.

Seven police officers and a Scottish Police Authority forensic service staff member were taken unwell and were treated onsite.

Darren Querns, 34, of Glasgow, appeared in private at Hamilton Sheriff Court on Thursday accused of several charges, including culpable and reckless conduct to the danger of life.

He is also accused of stalking, behaving in a threatening or abusive manner and drug possession.

He made no plea or declaration and was remanded in custody pending a further court appearance.

Police and emergency services arrived at the flat on Altyre Street, Shettleston, shortly after 5pm on Monday evening.

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said a number of resources were sent to the scene including specialist Hazmat units.

A Royal Navy bomb disposal team was also called to the incident as police cordoned off several streets.

Residents whose homes were evacuated as a precaution were allowed to return home by Tuesday morning.

The affected streets: Alytre Street, Dalness Street, Ard Street and Trainard Avenue; were reopened, having been closed overnight.