Man who used axe to smash patrol car windows in Howell turns himself in

HOWELL, Michigan. – A man who was seen by witnesses smashing the windows of Howell Police Department patrol cars with an ax has been arrested.

The incident occurred in the apartment’s parking lot on Saturday, August 3 at 2:25 p.m.

Officers were able to respond to their patrol duties and investigate thanks to the quick response of witnesses who were quick to report the incident.

Officials said the suspect had fled the scene when they arrived at the apartment.

Officers and deputies from the Hamburg Township Police Department and the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist with a search of the area using drones and a dog.

Officials said the search was unsuccessful, but surveillance video and nearby Ring cameras provided a good description of the suspect.

At 5:30 p.m. on August 3, the suspect turned himself in at the Livingston County Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said the man admitted causing the damage and was arrested. He was wearing the same clothing seen in the video.

There was damage to three Howell Police Department patrol units and the Code Enforcement vehicle.

Authorities said the damage consisted primarily of broken glass.

The man currently housed in the Livingston County Jail is well known to local law enforcement.

Officials say he is suffering from apparent mental health issues and more than one agency within the county has attempted to provide him with assistance through Community Mental Health.