After using pepper spray, police subdued man acting erratically following 3-vehicle crash in Morris County

HANOVER TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Morris County) — Hanover Township police responded to a three-vehicle crash at a Ridgedale Avenue gas station parking lot on Wednesday, May 21, at 5:26 p.m., where one man exhibited erratic behavior and threatened self-harm, authorities said.

Upon arrival, officers tended to occupants of one of the involved vehicles. Meanwhile, the driver of another car was outside his vehicle acting suspiciously. When officers approached, the man became erratic, stating he wanted to die. He was in possession of scissors, refused to comply with commands, and asked officers to shoot him, police said.

Officers moved bystanders away and attempted to deescalate the situation. After using pepper spray, they subdued the man without further incident. He was transported to a local hospital for evaluation, police said.

A child in one of the struck vehicles sustained moderate injuries and was taken to the hospital, along with another child as a precaution. Other vehicle occupants were evaluated at the scene but declined medical attention, police said.

Both vehicles were heavily damaged, but the gas pumps remained intact. The incident prompted a significant police, fire, and EMS response. The gas station parking lot was briefly closed but has since reopened.

The investigation into the circumstances is ongoing.