Portsmouth police searched part of the city after receiving a disturbing report of a man allegedly seen with a gun and appearing to be in crisis.
Officers were called to the area of 14th Street after a caller reported seeing a man on a scooter with what appeared to be a firearm.
According to the caller, the man was allegedly placing the gun in his mouth.
🚔 POLICE SEARCH THE AREA
Officers immediately began checking the neighborhood and speaking with potential witnesses.
During the search, people inside a nearby laundromat told police they believed the man had been hiding in the restroom.
Officers checked the area but were unable to locate him.
👀 LAST SEEN LEAVING AREA
Witnesses told police the man was last seen heading east from the laundromat.
According to the report, some believed he may have been heading toward New Boston, while others thought he might be going to visit someone on Summit Street.
Despite the search, officers were unable to find him.
⚠️ MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS
Reports involving individuals threatening self-harm are treated as emergencies by law enforcement and first responders.
Police often attempt to locate the person quickly to conduct a welfare check and connect them with mental health resources if needed.
In this case, the man was not located before officers cleared the scene.
📞 WHAT TO DO
Authorities encourage anyone who encounters a person threatening self-harm or displaying a firearm in a concerning manner to call 911 immediately.
Quick reporting can give first responders the best chance of locating someone who may be in danger.