Norristown, Pennsylvania – An investigation is underway after a police officer struck a naked man with a patrol car on , according to multiple reports. The incident, captured on witness video, has prompted concern from local officials and the immediate placement of the officer involved on administrative leave.
Police responded to numerous 911 calls around regarding a man obstructing traffic at the intersection of Stanbridge and West Airy streets. Reports indicated the individual was not wearing clothes, vandalizing a parked vehicle and physically assaulting passing cars, creating what authorities described as a “dangerous environment” for the community.
Video footage circulating online shows a marked police SUV approaching the intersection and striking the man. The impact propelled him several feet into the air before he fell to the ground. The authenticity of the video has been confirmed by both the Norristown Police Department and NBC10 Philadelphia.
“The events depicted in this video are very concerning, and a full investigation is underway,” stated a spokesperson for the Municipality of Norristown. Chief Mike Trail of the Norristown Police Department echoed this sentiment, stating, “I will tell you that video shocked my conscious.”
The Montgomery County Detective Bureau is leading the investigation, which will include a review of body camera footage, dashcam recordings, street surveillance cameras, Ring doorbell footage, and cell phone videos submitted by witnesses. The police department confirmed that multiple sources of video evidence are being examined.
The identity of the man struck by the police vehicle has not been released. His condition following the incident is also currently unknown, though authorities confirmed he received medical attention at the scene. No information has been released regarding potential charges against the individual related to the reported erratic behavior and alleged assaults.
The officer involved in the incident has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. This standard procedure is in line with departmental policy following a use-of-force incident. The investigation will focus on determining whether the officer’s actions were justified given the circumstances and whether departmental protocols were followed.
The incident has sparked a public discussion regarding police response to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or other forms of distress. While officials have acknowledged the concerning nature of the video, they also emphasized the potential danger posed by the man’s actions prior to the collision. The city stated that their priority “remains the safety and well-being of all residents, including individuals experiencing crises.”
Authorities are appealing to the public for any additional information or video footage related to the incident. Anyone with relevant information is asked to contact the Montgomery County Detective Bureau at , , at 610-278-3368.
This incident occurs amidst ongoing national conversations about police conduct and accountability. The availability of multiple video recordings, including those from cell phones and surveillance systems, is likely to play a significant role in the investigation and any subsequent legal proceedings. The case is expected to draw scrutiny from civil liberties groups and advocates for police reform.
The Norristown Police Department serves a diverse community in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Philadelphia. The department employs approximately 50 sworn officers and is responsible for providing law enforcement services to a population of around 35,000 residents.
