TOMS RIVER: On Tuesday, October 12, 2021, at approximately 4:05 PM, police were dispatched to Patmas Drive for a reported emotionally disturbed male acting erratically in the residence with a bat and knives. Upon police arrival, family members were evacuated from the home and officers formed a perimeter around the property for the safety of the neighborhood, officers, and the male party.

The male opened the front door holding a bat and large knife, and after failing to obey officer’s commands, he closed the front door refusing to come out. Toms River Police Emergency Services Unit, and Detective negotiators responded to the scene and opened a dialog via phone. After telephone negotiations ended, a tactical team entered the home, quickly locating the male party, and he was taken into protective custody. He was transported to Community Medical Center for further treatment. There are no reported injuries during the incident.

Also assisting on scene were members of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office. These types of calls are unpredictable and extremely dangerous. We’d like to commend all of the first responders on scene for their professionalism and commitment to the safety of everyone involved.