High Point, NC – A 29-year-old man was arrested early Thursday morning after allegedly assaulting a woman and attacking four police officers at a Planet Fitness on Eastchester Drive in High Point, North Carolina. The incident unfolded after a public disturbance call was made to police around 12:30 a.m.
Initial Disturbance at Planet Fitness
According to police reports, the initial call reported that a man was assaulting and threatening someone inside the gym. The suspect was also allegedly throwing weights and other gym equipment. Upon arrival, officers encountered Alan S. Hazelwood, who was described as being physically and verbally aggressive.
Confrontation with Police
When police arrived at the scene, they attempted to de-escalate the situation with Hazelwood. However, he reportedly refused to cooperate and became increasingly hostile. As officers tried to take him into custody, Hazelwood physically resisted and attacked them, according to the High Point Police Department. Even after being handcuffed, he continued his aggressive behavior.
Officers Injured in the Attack
The altercation resulted in minor injuries to four High Point police officers. They were all taken to a local hospital for treatment and were subsequently released.
Hazelwood’s Charges
Following the incident, Alan S. Hazelwood was booked into the Guilford County Jail in High Point. He faces a string of serious charges, including:
- Felony assault on a law enforcement officer
- Four counts of assault on a government official
- Two counts of communicating threats
- Assault on a female by a male over 18
- Felony resist, delay, and obstruct a public officer
Hazelwood is currently being held without bond.
Ongoing Investigation
The High Point Police Department has stated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing. Authorities are working to piece together the events that led to the initial disturbance and the subsequent attack on the officers.
Recent Incidents at Planet Fitness Locations
This incident in High Point is not the first time a Planet Fitness location has been the site of a violent altercation. There have been other recent cases reported across the country:
- Manteca, California: Just days ago, a homeless man was arrested after allegedly pulling a woman’s hair at a Planet Fitness. Gym members intervened and held the suspect until police arrived.
- Corona, California: In 2023, a 30-year-old man was charged with attempted murder after allegedly stabbing a 41-year-old man multiple times with a knife and a hatchet at a Planet Fitness.
- Other Incidents: There have been additional reports of individuals acting aggressively or erratically at Planet Fitness locations, highlighting potential security concerns at such facilities.
Community Concerns
The recent series of incidents at Planet Fitness locations raises concerns about safety and security at these gyms. While Planet Fitness markets itself as a “judgment-free zone,” the facilities may not be immune to violent altercations. The incident in High Point serves as a stark reminder of the importance of police intervention and the risks that officers face daily.
Focus on De-escalation
Police departments emphasize the importance of de-escalation tactics in volatile situations. However, as seen in the High Point incident, individuals sometimes refuse to cooperate, making physical intervention necessary. The focus is always on ensuring the safety of both the public and the officers involved.
Mental Health Considerations
These types of incidents can also highlight potential underlying issues, such as mental health struggles. While not always the case, some individuals involved in violent altercations may be experiencing a mental health crisis. This underscores the need for communities to address mental health resources and support systems.
Looking Ahead
The investigation into the High Point incident continues, and authorities will likely be evaluating security measures and response protocols for future incidents. The recent events at Planet Fitness locations across the country emphasize the importance of remaining vigilant and addressing potential threats to safety in public spaces.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as they become available.
