Crime & Police

Matthew Andersen Greets Police at Door Wearing “War Paint,” Gets Tased

Early this morning, Mesa PD tased and arrested a man who answered the door with "war paint" streaked across his face, and who on other occasions had greeted police armed with a sword. Neighbors in the 500 block of Alma School Road called police because they heard yelling and banging...
Carbonatix Pre-Player Loader

Audio By Carbonatix

Early this morning, Mesa PD tased and arrested a man who answered the door with “war paint” streaked across his face, and who on other occasions had greeted police armed with a sword.

Neighbors in the 500 block of Alma School Road called police because they heard yelling and banging from the home of Matthew Andersen, 30.

According to the police report, a neighbor recorded Andersen raving about wanting to use an arsenal of guns to shoot people. Apparently, from previous interaction, police also knew Andersen carried throwing knives.

When police arrived, Andersen said he would shoot the officers, who also noticed he had smeared what looked like blood across his face, according to the report.

When news happens, Phoenix New Times is there —
Your support strengthens our coverage.

We’re aiming to raise $30,000 by December 31, so we can continue covering what matters most to you. If New Times matters to you, please take action and contribute today, so when news happens, our reporters can be there.

$30,000

Police lured Andersen from the home, tased him, and when they checked inside they found a broken window punched out and a puddle of blood on the ground, a mattress barricading a door, a loaded sawed-off shotgun, a rifle, handgun, and myriad other tactical gear and weapons scattered through his house.

Mesa PD booked Andersen for threatening and intimidating, disorderly conduct, and weapon possession by a prohibited possessor.

GET MORE COVERAGE LIKE THIS

Sign up for the This Week’s Top Stories newsletter to get the latest stories delivered to your inbox

Loading latest posts...