Redding Man with an Umbrella Spurs School Lockdown

Wilfredo M. Seda, 22, of Portland Avenue, Redding was arrested for breach of peace following the search in Branchville this morning.

A caller to the Ridgefield police dept this morning reported a man dressed all in black who appeared to be carrying a gun. 

After an intensive search aided by police from neighboring communities, the suspect was found  “wearing all black clothing, a watch cap with a face mask looking like a beard. Across his back was an umbrella but it had the outward appearance of a samurai sword,” Ridgefield Police Capt. Tom Comstock said to the press. 

This incident caused schools in Ridgefield, Redding and Weston to be locked down for almost an hour this morning. Buses containing students from Branchville Elementary were diverted to another school.

Although Mr Seda was arrested, it is uncertain whether he meant mischief by his appearance or if he was just returning to his home on nearby Portland Avenue from the train at Branchville Station. This will be decided at his Jan. 3 court date in Danbury.

The Redding HamletHub is grateful to our first Responders who take every threat seriously in order to protect our town.