ESSEX — On Tuesday evening, Essex Police responded to reports of a man in dark clothing acting erratically and causing disturbances on River Road.
At about 6:23 p.m., dispatchers received several calls about the individual, later described as a 39-year-old male, standing in the roadway and jumping into traffic while pointing what appeared to be a handgun at passing vehicles.
A subsequent call from a concerned mother revealed the weapon to be a BB gun, and identified the man as her son.
Officers located the man at a nearby residence where he displayed erratic behavior and appeared to challenge them to an altercation, while also expressing suicidal thoughts.
To ensure community safety, law enforcement tactically withdrew and established a perimeter, requesting backup from neighboring police departments.
For the safety of the public, River Road was closed at the intersections of Sandhill Road and North Williston Road during the incident.
After extended efforts to de-escalate the situation, the man surrendered peacefully and consented to be taken to UVM Medical Center for a mental health evaluation.
Sgt. Chistolini of the Essex Police Department expressed gratitude to the Vermont State Police, Vermont Game Wardens, Milton Police, and Williston Police for their support in resolving the situation safely.
