FAIRFIELD – An armed juvenile was taken into protective custody in Fairfield over the weekend after experiencing a mental health crisis.

According to the Fairfield Police Department, on July 25, 2026, at around 8:27 PM, officers were dispatched to a residence after a report of a juvenile experiencing a mental health crisis and threatening self-harm.

When officers arrived, they found the juvenile in possession of a knife and began communicating with them. Police say they attempted to de-escalate the situation, and after approximately 15 minutes, the juvenile safely put the knife down without anyone being injured in the incident.

However, as officers tried to take the juvenile in protective custody for a mental health evaluation, the juvenile allegedly became combative, biting and kicking officers. Despite their resistance, they were taken into custody and transported to the Jefferson County Health Center. There, the juvenile reportedly became combative again and attempted to assault a healthcare worker and a family member. Police intervention resulted in additional officers being assaulted while restraining the juvenile.

Fairfield interim police chief Joel Smith commended the officers involved for their professionalism, patience, and restraint, and said that the Fairfield Police Department recognizes that mental health crises can be challenging for everyone involved.

Because the incident involved a juvenile, no additional identifying information will be released.