Officers with the Bunkie Police Department responded to a residence in the Oak Villa neighborhood in reference to an armed, barricaded male subject experiencing a mental health crisis inside an outdoor shed on Tuesday, April 21.
Upon arrival, officers made multiple attempts to negotiate with the individual and encourage a peaceful surrender; however, those efforts were unsuccessful. Officers then deployed OC spray into the shed and made entry.
Upon contact, the subject was found to be in possession of a shotgun. Officers discharged two rubber less-lethal rounds, which allowed them to safely take the individual into custody without further incident.
The subject was treated on scene by medical personnel and subsequently transported to the Avoyelles Parish Detention Center for booking. He will also undergo further evaluation by medical professionals regarding his mental health condition at a later time.
This incident remains under investigation at the time of this release.
Assistant Chief of Police Brandon Horton issued the following statement: “I want to assure the public that the area is now safe. My officers and I would like to thank the surrounding residents for their cooperation in remaining in a safe location while officers handled the situation. I also commend our officers for applying their training and bringing this incident to a safe resolution for everyone involved. Due to this incident also involving a medical mental health crisis, the information being released will be limited. May God bless you all, and may God bless Bunkie.”
*Disclaimer: All Suspects are to be presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.