ATHOL — On Friday, Oct. 23, 2026, at approximately 7:00 a.m., Athol police responded to a residence on Crescent Street following a report of a man causing a disturbance who may have been experiencing a mental health crisis.
According to Athol Police Chief Jarret Mousseau, officers closed off the immediate area to the public for the safety of everyone involved while they worked at the scene.
After several hours of negotiations, the man was taken into custody without incident.
Chief Mousseau said it was an isolated incident and there is no threat to the public.
Massachusetts State Police, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Department and its Special Response Team, and National Grid assisted with the response.
Chief Mousseau thanked the assisting agencies and residents in the affected area for their understanding. He also expressed appreciation for the residents who offered officers coffee and food if they needed it.
“That kindness is appreciated,” he said.
