Police Disarm Man, Prevent Self-Harm During Mental Health Crisis In Middlesex Co.

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides free, confidential support 24 hours a day. Veterans and service members can call 988 and press 1 to connect with the Veterans Crisis Line. Anyone facing an immediate threat to life or safety should call 911.

MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ — Monroe Township police officers safely disarmed a man who was harming himself with a kitchen knife during a mental health crisis at Valor Pointe Apartments on Aug. 7, according to police.

The Monroe Township Police Department responded to the complex, a portion of which provides housing for veterans, after a resident called requesting assistance while experiencing a mental health crisis, police said.

Officers were met at the door by a man, who was armed with a kitchen knife and had begun using it to harm himself, creating an immediate danger of serious injury, according to police.

Officers Kevin Ging, Daniel Lang and Kamrin O'Neill intervened and were able to safely disarm and restrain the man, preventing further self-harm, police said.

The incident was brought under control without injury to the responding officers. Monroe Township EMS transported the man to a local medical facility for further evaluation and treatment.

"Our officers were faced with a difficult and rapidly evolving situation and responded with professionalism, restraint, and compassion," Police Chief Griffin Banos said. "Their actions helped ensure this individual could receive the care he needed."

The Monroe Township Police Department reminded residents that help is available for those experiencing a mental health crisis.

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