Knife-Wielding Man Threatened to Kill Mother Prior to Police Standoff

After a nearly five-hour long standoff, Hamden police used a Taser and a bean bag rifle to take a knife-wielding man into custody on Wednesday night.

Hamden police responded to 100 Bradley Avenue at about 3:30 p.m. on the report of an emotionally disturbed person, who was in the possession of a knife, Capt. Ronald Smith said in a press release.

Officers learned that Tyron Clemmons, 38, earlier had a verbal dispute with his mother. When she returned home, Clemmons was in the possession of a knife. Fearing for her safety, she immediately contacted Hamden Police, according to Smith.

Moments later, officers confronted Clemmons in an attempt to subdue him. Officers continuously instructed him to relinquish the knife, which he refused to do.

Clemmons then walked toward the officers, at which time a Taser was deployed.

Smith said the Taser had minimal effect. Officers subsequently retreated and left the residence. The Crisis Negotiation Team and Emergency Services Unit were promptly summoned to the scene.

Members of the Crisis Negotiation Team attempted to converse with Clemmons for approximately 5 hours and he frequently pleaded with officers to shoot him, according to Smith.

At approximately 8:30p.m., Clemmons emerged from his residence in the possession of the knife. He was repeatedly told to drop the knife. He refused and subsequently began walking toward officers.

Officers used non-lethal force to subdue him. Clemmons was struck with “bean bag rounds”, as well as a Taser, as he approached officers, Smith said.

The weapons were effective, which allowed officers to safely detain him in preparation of transport to Yale-New Haven Hospital.

Clemmons was transported to Yale-New Haven Hospital for evaluation and Smith said the investigation is continuing.