Earlier today, a armed man confronted a Lakeville officer monitoring traffic, according to CBS News. The officer swiftly hid behind his cruiser and drew his weapon, ordering the man to drop the firearm. The confrontation escalated when an off-duty Massachusetts state trooper happened upon the scene, and both officers reportedly issued numerous commands for the armed individual to relinquish his weapon.
Despite these efforts, the circumstances quickly deteriorated as the suspect took an aggressive stance and raised his gun, leading the Lakeville officer and the state trooper to discharge their firearms, fearing for their safety, according to Lakeville Police Chief Matthew Perkins. The man was struck and subsequently rushed to St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford for emergency treatment. Neither officer involved was injured during the altercation, as Boston 25 News reported.
As the investigation continues, details have begun to emerge. A weapon belonging to the suspect has been recovered, and multiple officers and state troopers were spotted near a parked black sedan with its door open, as captured in drone footage by a Boston 25 News photographer. Lakeville Police Chief Matthew Perkins assured the public that there is no danger at this time and, as the incident unfolded, roadway closures were put into place but have since been lifted.
Per standard procedure, the Lakeville officer was taken off duty, and the service weapons of both the officer and the state trooper involved have been taken as part of the investigation. Their names have yet to be released, allowing them to retain their anonymity while the case unfolds. The Plymouth County District Attorney's Office has taken charge of the investigation.
Notably, the incident was recorded using body cameras worn by the officers. Chief Perkins confirmed that footage of the confrontation exists, and that it will be released at some point in the future. While the police chief's statement regarding the competence of the officer offers a measure of reassurance, the footage will reveal a more complete account of what transpired during those early morning hours. "I believe he did a good job, when we reviewed the body camera footage," Perkins said in a statement.
As the man recovers from his injuries, he now faces several charges, including assault with a dangerous weapon. Further information regarding his possible arraignment and additional charges are yet to be disclosed.
