Unsettling Neighborhood Incident
Neighbors in the area became alarmed when they observed Alan Weber running from house to house, attempting to open doors, collecting mail, directing nonexistent traffic, and leaving rosary beads smeared with blood on a porch.
His behavior grew increasingly erratic, with shouting and the destruction of property. Concerned residents dialed 911 to report the unfolding situation.
Confrontation with Police
When police officers arrived at the scene, they found Alan Weber wearing a fencing mask and armed with two swords.
Despite commands to drop the weapons, Weber refused to comply. Officers initially used a stun gun in their attempt to subdue him.
Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison explained that the officers felt they had no choice but to use force to neutralize the threat.
Fatal Shots Fired
As the situation escalated, one of the police officers, who had refrained from using the stun gun, fired multiple shots when Weber charged at them with the swords.
Tragically, Weber was pronounced dead upon arrival at Huntington Hospital. The officer’s identity has not been disclosed.
Crisis Intervention Training
The police officers at the scene had received crisis intervention training, with one officer having six years of experience with the department and the other with four years of experience.
Despite their training and efforts, the incident had a tragic outcome.
Weber’s Background and Struggles
Alan Weber, as revealed through his social media account, was the owner and head coach at Elevate Fencing Club.
He had attended the University of Pennsylvania and had a notable fencing career, being a five-time member of the U.S. national team and serving as an alternate for the Olympics.
However, he had been grappling with depression and aggression since his separation from his wife and children, according to neighbors.
Community Concerns and Past Interactions
Neighbors expressed their concerns about Weber’s deteriorating mental state and had sought police assistance for psychiatric intervention on multiple occasions before the tragic confrontation.
Questions have arisen about the handling of the situation and whether there could have been alternative measures taken to address his mental health issues earlier in the day.
Ongoing Investigation and Related Lawsuit
Suffolk County Police are currently investigating the shooting of Alan Weber. Simultaneously, they face a lawsuit related to the shooting of another mentally ill victim, further raising concerns about the police’s response to individuals with mental health issues.
Attorney Kenneth Mollins, representing the victim in the lawsuit, criticized the police’s handling of such situations, highlighting the need for improved protocols when dealing with mental health issues.
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