On Sunday, a tense situation unfolded on Tamalpais Avenue in Novato when a man, identified as 58-year-old Matthew Malouf, reportedly attacked another individual with a hammer. The Novato Police Department responded to 911 calls regarding the incident, swiftly setting up a perimeter around the scene upon their arrival.
According to a social media post by the Novato Police Department, the attempted assault took place around 3 PM. Malouf is said to have followed the victim, who has limited mobility, while allegedly threatening their life. The attack was disrupted when a passerby intervened, prompting Malouf to retreat into his residence before the police’s arrival.
The victim was fortunately not injured during the altercation. When the officers arrived, they immediately contacted the victim and began negotiating with Malouf. Despite several hours of negotiation attempts, Malouf refused to surrender, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant and a search warrant for Malouf and his home. With the assistance of a San Rafael Police Department canine officer, they executed the warrants at approximately 6:00 PM.
Malouf subsequently surrendered and was arrested. He was booked at the Marin County Jail for assault with a deadly weapon and making criminal threats.
