Police charge Blackstone man after alleged standoff

BLACKSTONE – A tense standoff between SWAT officers and a man who allegedly barricaded himself inside his home on Gaskill Street ended peacefully around 12 a.m. Monday, when he surrendered, police said.

The man, Edward Curtis Chandler, 71, was arrested on several charges following the incident, including two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon (handgun); four counts of possession of a firearm with a license; possession of ammunition without an FID card; and possession of a Class C substance.

The incident began at around 7:18 p.m. when Blackstone police officers responded to a residence on Gaskill Street for a well-being check on Chandler. As the officers approached the residence, Chandler displayed a handgun, which forced the officers to retreat to a safe position and call for additional units.

It was at that point, police said, that Chandler shut the door and went inside the home.

The Central Massachusetts Law Enforcement Council SWAT Team, along with Woonsocket police and the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office Crisis Negotiation Team, responded to the scene to provide assistance and after several hours, the SWAT team was able to safely enter the home and take Chandler into custody without incident.

After searching Chandler’s residence, police located multiple weapons and various types of ammunition.

Chandler was taken to a local hospital where he is currently being held for evaluation pending a court arraignment.

No injuries were reported and the incident remains under active investigation.

“This was a tense situation and I commend our officers for falling back on their train- ing to ensure that the scene remained as safe as possible throughout this incident,” said Blackstone Police Chief Ross A. Atstupenas. “I would like thank all agencies involved for their assistance in bringing this situation to a peaceful end.”