New Bedford police peacefully disarm man with knife during mental health call

NEW BEDFORD — Police officers successfully de-escalated a volatile situation involving an emotionally disturbed man armed with a knife on Monday, March 4.

The man, known to have a violent history, was holding the knife while seated in a parked vehicle when officers arrived to serve a commitment order.

Rather than immediately engaging, the officers stepped back and encouraged communication with the man’s family members.

He eventually surrendered the weapon and accompanied police to the hospital without incident.

Police Chief Paul Oliveira praised the officers’ restraint and commitment to de-escalation in the face of a perceived threat.