37-year-old man detained in Alverca following axe attack and assault on officers
A man was detained in Alverca do Ribatejo for injuring a person with an axe and subsequently confronting police officers. The detainee invoked mental health problems to justify his actions.
37-year-old man detained in Alverca following axe attack and assault on officers
Security forces detained a 37-year-old man in the Alverca do Ribatejo area, Lisbon district, on suspicion of attempted murder and assault on law enforcement officers.
The violent incident occurred outside a local commercial establishment. A person who was waiting for a friend outside the premises was taken by surprise by the attacker, who was wielding an axe that had been hidden near a skateboard. The attacker struck the victim in the right shoulder area, who managed to escape a second blow by quickly entering the building.
The victim suffered severe bleeding and required emergency medical assistance. Security camera footage from the location captured the moment the injured person returned inside the establishment, whilst the attacker left the area on foot.
Police authorities immediately launched a search of the surrounding area. During the investigation, a break-in was reported at a nearby company's premises. When officers were called to the scene, they encountered the same individual, who threw several objects at them and advanced in a threatening manner, disregarding orders to stop. Police officers eventually managed to overpower and immobilise the suspect.
Subsequently, investigations confirmed that the detainee was the same person responsible for the assault with a blade. When questioned, he accepted responsibility for his actions, explaining that he had acted driven by the delusional belief that other people were conspiring to kill him.
Currently, the detainee is receiving medical care in a hospital. Once he is discharged, he will be transferred to COMETLIS facilities and subsequently brought before a judge for the first hearing and a decision on any possible restraining measures.
Information released by SAPO.
Source: Google News PT — Crime (pt)