Fall River Police get man into custody after mental episode

Fall River Police were able to secure a city man after a mental episode Saturday night.

According to scanner transmissions, a call came in to FRPD in the vicinity of 9:00 p.m. concerning a man and a machete on Warren Street.

Witnesses stated as many as 9 cruisers responded to the location to secure the home where the man in question was located. The area was also blocked off by police.

A staging area was also initiated near the home.

After a lengthy standoff, at approximately 11:15 p.m., FRPD placed the man into custody.

According to Lieutenant Jay Huard, a 36-year-old male occupant of the home suffered a severe mental breakdown.

He was subsequently sectioned for immediate mental health assistance.

This incident is one of several recent Fall River area episodes concerning mental health. Mental health issues have risen recently particularly with the public dealing with COVID-19 and its ramifications.

If you or someone you know needs some support, there are resources available.

Samaritans of Fall River / New Bedford: (508) 999-7267
Geriatric Psychiatry at Saint Anne’s Hospital: 508-689-3300
The Fernandes Center for Children & Families: 508-235-5285
Corrigan Mental Health Center: (508) 235-7200 or (877) 425-0048