JSOG Mobilized to Gadsden Scene; Distraction Device Sparks Small Fire
One Taken Into Custody
GADSDEN, Ala. — The Gadsden-Etowah County Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG) was mobilized Friday afternoon in response to a call on Crocheron Alley in Gadsden.
The roadway is located just off 6th Street near its intersection with U.S. Highway 431. Officers initially requested that a mental health officer respond to the scene before JSOG was activated. Authorities have not released details regarding the nature of the original call.
As WEIS Radio arrived, a loud explosion was heard, followed by smoke rising from a residence. According to information from the scene, officers were attempting to detain a suspect when a distraction device was deployed, resulting in a small fire.
The Gadsden Fire Department was staged nearby to assist and quickly extinguished the blaze. During the response, one lane of Highway 431 was temporarily blocked while crews worked to secure the area.
Shortly after the fire was extinguished, a man was taken into custody. He was evaluated in the back of an ambulance at the scene and could be heard yelling at officers as he was escorted for transport.
It remains unclear whether the individual was formally arrested and charged or transported for additional medical or mental health care.
Update: Offical Statement from Gadsden Police Department added:
Early this afternoon, officers responded to a mental health–related pickup order near North 6th Street involving a barricaded individual. Due to the circumstances, assistance from the Etowah County Joint Special Operations Group (JSOG) was requested. JSOG personnel then dedicated a significant amount of time attempting to make contact and resolve the situation safely. When all reasonable efforts to communicate were exhausted, JSOG used breaching methods to create a path for communication. During the operation, a fire occurred, requiring an immediate emergency entry. JSOG personnel were able to safely remove the individual, and no injuries were reported.
Incidents involving mental health crises are complex and unpredictable, and the focus throughout this response remained on preserving life and ensuring the safety of everyone involved.
We want to thank all responding agencies and the community members in the area for allowing officers to work safely. Your patience and cooperation play an important role in helping incidents like this be resolved as safely as possible.
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