Machete-Wielding Man Injures Officers In Norristown: Cops

NORRISTOWN, PA — A machete-wielding man was arrested by Norristown police after a violent confrontation that took place as a large crowd approached, causing officers to "fear for their safety" on Monday night and leaving two injured, authorities said. The Norristown Police Department said they were "fully investigating" the use of force in the case, as is their protocol in such arrests.

Andre Livingston, 42, faces aggravated assault charges in connection with the incident. It occurred as tensions between communities and police were high amid recent protests surrounding the death of George Floyd, some of which have devolved into violence and looting in thegreater Philadelphia area.

It began at around 10:30 p.m. on June 1 on the 500 block of Green Street. Police were called to the scene after residents reported a disturbance involving men with guns.

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Residents pointed out Livingston, who was wielding a large machete, as one of the agitators, authorities said.

Police called for Livingston to stop but he refused, and tried to run away. Police pursued, and that's when Livingston turned around charged an officer, hitting her in the face and slamming her to the ground, according to officials.

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The officer suffered serious injuries to both her face and legs in the ensuing struggle. Several more officers arrived and Livingston "fought violently," and was eventually able to wrestle a taser loose from one of them, police said. He tried but was unsuccessful in taking another officer's gun.

While police attempted to cuff Livingston, a large group began to approach, "in a way that caused officers to fear for their safety," police said. Officers on the scene were "significantly outnumbered," and surrounding police departments were called for assistance.

Once Livingston was in custody he was taken to the hospital to be checked out. While in the hospital, Livingston spat on several officers and attempted to headbutt another, police said. He told one of the police officers that "You'll be the first person that I kill" when he's released, according to authorities.

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Livingston was found to have no injuries and was booked at Montgomery County Correctional Facility.

The two officers that were injured received treatment and are recovering.