Man Arrested After Confrontation Near Saratoga County Public Safety Building

Man Brought Rifle to Public Safety Building

New York State Police say a potentially dangerous situation in Saratoga County was brought under control without serious injury, and thankfully, multiple weapons were confiscated before anyone was hurt.

On Monday, State Police, assisted by the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, say they arrested 37-year-old Andrew M. Provencher of Ballston Spa following a reported confrontation outside the Saratoga County Public Safety Building.

After the Confrontation, He Got Away

Troopers say Provencher was seen wearing a ballistic vest and carrying what appeared to be a rifle before approaching a stranger in the parking lot and becoming confrontational. The individual, though, was able to get away.

Read More: A Loudonville Staple Says Goodbye After Three Decades

As officers were being notified, Provencher allegedly fled the scene in his vehicle. He was located and stopped a short time later on Malta Avenue in Ballston Spa, where he exited the vehicle still wearing the ballistic vest. After a brief struggle, he was taken into custody. A trooper sustained minor injuries during the arrest, according to the report.

What They Found

During their investigation, police seized two knives hidden inside the ballistic vest along with an imitation Tippmann M4 Carbine-style rifle found inside the vehicle. Authorities say the rifle was loaded and capable of firing metal pellets.

Provencher now faces multiple charges, including felony weapons possession, assault, unlawful wearing of a body vest, resisting arrest, and obstructing governmental administration.

He was arraigned in Ballston Spa Village Court and remanded to the Saratoga County Correctional Facility in lieu of bail, according to the report.

Thankfully, officers were able to safely confiscate the weapons and bring the situation to a close without further injury. As always, we appreciate you all and thank you for your continued service.

Stay safe!