In Piscataway, New Jersey, local authorities reported a tragic incident on Tuesday involving a man who fatally attacked his mother and grandparents with a machete before being shot dead by police.
Police were alerted to the situation at a residence on River Road around 5:30 p.m. on Monday, following a distress call about an individual armed with a knife.
Upon their arrival, officers encountered the suspect wielding a machete. Attempts to subdue him with tasers proved ineffective, according to the police.
As the man advanced towards them with the weapon, officers resorted to using their firearms, resulting in his death.
Inside the house, officers discovered the bodies of three individuals, believed to be the suspect’s mother and grandparents.
Neighbor Jessica Conroy recounted the dramatic scene: “I was about to start making dinner when I heard the police arrive next door. I glanced out the window and saw them with their weapons drawn, followed by the sound of gunfire.”
The Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office and the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office are investigating their deaths. Officials say there were no prior incidents at the house.
Neighbors told WABC-TV that they had nice encounters with those who lived at the home in the past.
“Very nice, lady. Very nice, quiet neighborhood. It’s so tragic that something like this happens,” said neighbor Keith Heron.
Officials say it appears to be an isolated incident and that there is no indication of any threat to the community.
The investigation is ongoing.
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