Fullerton Police officers responded to the 100 block of W. Orangethorpe Ave. after receiving a report of a male acting erratically inside a business on July 12, 2026, at approximately 10:30 am.

The sole employee in the business safely exited the location after the male armed himself with a knife. The employee immediately called 9-1-1.

The male barricaded himself inside the business, where he caused extensive damage to the interior. During the incident, he armed himself with an axe and an additional large knife while making threats to harm himself.

Officers spent several hours attempting to negotiate with the male in an effort to bring the incident to a safe and peaceful resolution. The male refused to exit the business, and he continued vandalizing the interior.

As a precaution, surrounding businesses were evacuated. At no time was there an immediate threat to the surrounding community.

The North County SWAT Team responded to the scene and continued negotiations with the male in an effort to secure a peaceful surrender.

The North County SWAT Team broke the glass and successfully subdued the suspect. At around 3:45 p.m., the male was safely taken into custody. He was then transported to a local hospital for treatment of self-inflicted injuries.

Upon his release from the hospital, he will be transported to the Fullerton City Jail, where he will be booked on the appropriate charges, including felony vandalism, resisting and making threats.

The Fullerton Police Department Representatives said, “We appreciate the patience and cooperation of the surrounding businesses, employees, and community members while officers worked to bring this incident to a safe resolution.”