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.
WEIS has reached out to authorities for further details and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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