By: Richard L. Smith
A major scare unfolded in Hackettstown on Friday afternoon after authorities received a report of an individual allegedly carrying an assault-style weapon near a hospital and elementary school.
According to information provided by local officials, police responded around 2:20 p.m. on April 4 to the 600 block of Willow Grove Street after witnesses reported seeing a man walking around a yard with what appeared to be an AK-47.
Alarmingly, the individual was said to have pointed the weapon in the direction of Hackettstown Medical Center.
In response, officers swiftly secured the scene while placing both Hackettstown Medical Center and nearby Willow Grove Elementary School on lockdown as a precaution.
The lockdown was lifted after the area was deemed safe.
Further investigation revealed that the firearm was, in fact, a toy gun that lacked the legally required orange safety tip, making it appear realistic.
The suspect, identified as 32-year-old William Meza of Hackettstown, was taken into custody and charged with disorderly conduct, a disorderly persons offense.
He was later released pending a court appearance.
Multiple agencies assisted in the response, including the Hackettstown Department of Public Works, Mansfield Township Police, Independence Township Police, and Washington Township Police from Morris County.
Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious behavior, especially in areas near schools or medical facilities, and are reminding residents about the importance of toy gun safety to avoid unnecessary panic.