Berwick PD: Man who fired at officers booked on attempted murder charges

The man who fired a shotgun at officers responding to a potential suicide call Monday has been booked on three attempted-murder counts, Berwick police said.

Aydan Rhodes, 18, Berwick, was arrested at 9:52 a.m. Monday on three counts of attempted first-degree murder, illegal use of weapons or dangerous instrumentalities, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Officers answered the call about a suicidal subject in a home in the 500 block of Ehrlich. Citing "exigent circumstances," the Police Department said officers entered the home to make contact with Rhodes

Rhodes was seen to be pointing a shotgun at officers, who took cover and began to negotiate with Rhodes to drop the weapon, police said. Rhodes threatened to kill officers. Negotiations were unsuccessful, as a single shot was fired in the direction of officers, police said.

Additional assistance from outside agencies were requested. A family member inside the residence, against police commands, entered the room and wrestled the gun away from Rhodes, police said.

After Rhodes was disarmed, officers re-engaged the suspect, who then became armed with a large knife. Once again, Officers ordered Rhodes to drop the knife, and he complied, police said.

Rhodes was taken into custody without further incident.

Chief David Leonard commended the officers for showing great restraint and not using warranted deadly force. Leonard would also thanked the Morgan City Police Department and the St. Mary Parish Sheriffs Office for their assistance during this investigation.