WILLIMANTIC — The Willimantic Police Department successfully de-escalated a potentially dangerous situation Friday when a person threatening self-harm and others surrendered peacefully after negotiations.
Officers responded to a residence on North Street at approximately 3:30 p.m. after family members safely exited the apartment and contacted authorities.
Police quickly isolated the area to ensure public safety while attempting to establish communication with the individual.
As the situation continued, the department activated its Special Operations Group, bringing in crisis negotiators and deploying an Emergency Rescue Vehicle to the front steps of the residence.
The vehicle served as a protective shield for the public while negotiators worked to communicate with the distressed individual.
The person, who had initially been non-compliant, eventually exited the residence peacefully.
Officers later recovered a hunting rifle from the home.
Police officials said the incident remains under active investigation.
