By Steve Klamkin WPRO News
A tense situation in Bristol Wednesday afternoon, as an armed man held police at bay, forcing some neighbors to be evacuated or told to shelter in place for more than an hour.
The incident began as an argument between Richard Coelho, 60 at his home on Naomi Street at about 1:10 P.M., and his adult son, who had failed to appear for an appearance in court, said Bristol Police Chief Kevin Lynch.
“The younger Coelho, the son had a proceeding that was in the court today that he did not attend, and we believe that to be the genesis for the argument between the father and the son,” said Lynch.
He said police from neighboring communities were called in to help, students were kept inside the nearby Mount Hope High School, neighbors in adjoining homes were evacuated and others in the neighborhood advised to shelter in place, and police were able to remove the son and his mother from the home.
Chief Lynch credited negotiators for talking Coelho out of the home.
“Lieutenant Julie Veader did an exceptional job today. She kept in constant contact on the police bullhorn. Having a relationship, living in a small town we seem to know quite a few of the residents, and she did an exemplary job today and was able to negotiate with Mr. Coelho who ultimately came out of the home without incident and we were able to effectuate an arrest,” Lynch said.
He said the Attorney General’s office would likely decide on any charges, which likely could include domestic assault and firearms counts.
