San Antonio police tased and arrested a man who allegedly swung a hatchet and advanced on officers during a tense Saturday morning encounter on the city’s East Side. The incident unfolded around 8:29 a.m. on May 2, 2026, near SE Loop 410 and Rigsby Avenue. Authorities said no officers were injured, and the man was taken into custody without further incident. He is facing four counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer.
Officers were first called out for reports of a suspicious man armed with a knife. According to FOX San Antonio, when police arrived, they spotted the suspect striking a crosswalk signal with a hatchet. Officers repeatedly ordered him to drop the weapon. Instead, authorities say, he made aggressive movements toward them, prompting officers to use a Taser to bring him under control.
Community context on the East Side
The confrontation happened in a stretch of the East Side that has already seen serious violence this year. In February, KSAT reported a fatal shooting on the 1600 block of Rigsby Avenue. Incidents like that have kept public safety top of mind for residents and police alike, as patrols and investigations continue in the area. A man swinging a hatchet at a crosswalk signal is not exactly routine, but it underscores how unpredictable some East Side calls can get.
Charges and next steps
SAPD told FOX San Antonio that the suspect was booked on four counts of aggravated assault on a peace officer. Officers kept their distance, used the Taser to subdue him, and then moved in to make the arrest. It was not immediately clear whether prosecutors had formally filed charges; court records and official SAPD releases are expected to provide updates as the case progresses.
Hoodline will be tracking any filings and public records for additional details, including the suspect’s identity and upcoming court dates. Anyone with information or video related to the incident can contact SAPD’s non-emergency line or reach out to the department’s media relations office. This story will be updated as officials release more information.
