Suspect’s Knife Threat Prompts Fake Gun Report and Arrest After Police Chase

Niagara Falls Police responded to the 1100 block of Centre Avenue around 5:40pm after reports of an unwanted party. Dispatch advised that two groups of people were actively fighting.

While en route, dispatch was advised that a male named Shawn Sweet was concealing a firearm on his person. Officers were familiar with Sweet as he has had numerous interactions with NFPD over the years.

Upon arriving at the location, officers observed Sweet walking on the north side of the street. Taking into account the fact that the caller stated Sweet had a firearm, officers exited their vehicle keeping their department-issued firearm at a low ready.

Officers gave specific instructions to Sweet to stop where he was and to show his hands. Sweet ignored the verbal commands and began to run north through a yard.

Multiple officers began to yell “stop running” and “police, stop.” He did not.

Officers observed Sweet toss an object concealed in a red bandana into a pile of brush. Officers were able to cut Sweet off on the 100 block of Garden Avenue. He was detained and placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle.

Sweet did not have any weapons on him at the time he was detained. Sweet said he ran because he “didn’t want to be involved.”

Once Sweet was brought back to the 1100 block of Centre Avenue, officers searched the area where he had tossed the red bandana and object. It turned out that the object was a large glass pipe commonly used to smoke marijuana or tobacco.

Speaking with the caller, officers learned that he and Sweet had an altercation in the City of Lockport on September 1st, 2025. The caller stated that he shot Sweet with an airsoft gun after Sweet threatened to stab him with a steak knife. When officers asked the caller if he saw Sweet with a handgun, he replied “I thought he might have had it on him.”

Sweet was placed under arrest for disregarding verbal commands, preventing officers from doing their lawful duties, and fleeing. He was charged with obstructing governmental administration.

Sweet was transported to police headquarters for booking and processing. He was released with an appearance ticket. No further information is available at this time.

Suspect’s Knife Threat Prompts Fake Gun Report and Arrest After Police Chase