Axe-Wielding Suspect Caught In Fairfield After Police Chase

FAIRFIELD, CT — A 35-year-old New York City man, who police said was wielding an axe and acting erratically, was caught by Fairfield after a foot chase from the Post Road, over the Metro-North train tracks and onto I-95, according to authorities.

No injuries were reported in the incident, but Fairfield police said that the suspect, Orlando Roper, "made statements indicating his desire for Officers to use deadly force in order to gain compliance."

The incident began just before 11 p.m. at Hemlock Hardware, 1860 Post Road, where Roper was seen acting erratically, according to police.

"Roper was observed behind his vehicle parked near an adjacent business, brandishing an axe," said Sgt. Michael Stahl in a statement. "Despite officers' attempts to engage him peacefully, Roper made statements indicating his desire for Officers to use deadly force in order to gain compliance. Efforts to de-escalate the situation were made, but Roper fled on foot while still wielding the axe."

Officers chased Roper on foot across the train tracks and onto I-95, before surrounding him. He eventually dropped the axe and was taken into custody, Stahl said. In addition to Fairfield police, officers from the Westport Police Department, and troopers from Connecticut State Police, were also involved in the pursuit.

Roper was charged with second-degree breach of peace and interfering with an officer, and was scheduled to be arraigned in Bridgeport Superior Court on Wednesday.

"We are reminded of the inherent dangers and uncertainties our officers confront daily," Stahl said of Tuesday night's incident. "However, we are fortunate to have a team of dedicated professionals trained in employing less-lethal measures and de-escalation tactics. Their swift and skillful actions resulted in the successful resolution of a situation that could have tragically unfolded in a vastly different manner. We commend our officers for their unwavering commitment to preserving life and ensuring the safety of our community."