SWEDEN — The Oxford County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a naked man carrying a rifle who emerged from the woods along Knights Hill Road on Monday at approximately 2:45 p.m.
According to Sheriff Christopher Wainwright, the mud-covered man interacted with several contractors at a nearby jobsite, claiming his friend had been shot and that he needed assistance before walking back into the woods.
Multiple agencies including the Oxford County Sheriff’s Office, Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, Maine State Police, Bridgton Police and the Sweden Fire Department established a perimeter and closed roads in the area.
Authorities issued a Code Red alert, asking neighbors in the immediate vicinity to shelter in place.
At approximately 7:30 p.m., a 34-year-old male, formerly of Cambridge, was located at a nearby residence and taken into protective custody.
The man was treated at the scene for minor injuries to his feet before being transported to Bridgton Hospital for a mental health evaluation.
A K9 team discovered clothing, personal items and footprints in the snow and mud during the search, and officers seized a high-powered pellet rifle at the residence where the man was found.
According to Major Dana Thompson, the investigation is ongoing, but no criminal charges are currently pending.
Authorities do not believe anyone else was involved or injured, and there is no danger to the public.
