(Wilmington, DE 19804) On Thursday (Nov 15) at approximately 10:30 p.m., officers from the New Castle County Division of Police were dispatched to the 500 block of Essex Ave in the community of Bellemoor for a check on the welfare.

Upon arrival, officers learned that 48-year-old Michael Ballard made statements that caused concern for his welfare and he further refused to answer his door.  Officers set up a perimeter and established phone contact with Michael Ballard.  The phone contact confirmed that Ballard was in the residence and may be in possession of a firearm.

A perimeter was established which subsequently shut down multiple intersections along Boxwood Ave and closed the Conrad School of Sciences.  A Reverse 911 message was sent out to neighboring residences advising occupants to remain inside their homes.

Shortly after 9:00 am this morning (Nov 16), Ballard surrendered peacefully to the officers and was taken to a local hospital for an evaluation.

During the examination of Ballard’s residence, evidence was discovered that a firearm had been discharged in the direction of neighboring houses.

Ballard has been charged with 2 counts of felony Reckless Endangering 1st, 2 counts of felony Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony and 2 counts of felony Possession of a Firearm by a Person Prohibited.

Arraignment and bail information were not available at the time of this release.

Citizens who wish to register to be placed on the Reverse 911 call list can do so for free at https://nccpd.onthealert.com/

Michael Ballard

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