A man wearing a gas mask and tactical gear stormed a Massachusetts courthouse, unleashing pepper spray and chaos before being subdued by officers who risked their own safety to protect the public.
At a Glance
- Nicholas Akerberg, 28, attacked Woburn District Court near Boston on April 14 equipped with a gas mask, tactical gear, and multiple pepper spray canisters
- He sprayed multiple court officers, a police officer, and an assistant district attorney before physically assaulting several individuals
- This marks the third serious incident at the courthouse since March 10, raising concerns about court security
- Akerberg faces multiple assault charges and is being held without bail pending a competency evaluation
Tactical Attack on Massachusetts Courthouse
On April 14, 28-year-old Nicholas Akerberg of Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts launched a disturbing attack at Woburn District Court near Boston. Dressed in a gas mask, helmet, tactical boots, and sunglasses, Akerberg entered the courthouse ready for combat.
Court surveillance footage shows the masked assailant carrying eight pepper spray canisters and two smoke canisters as he methodically entered the building. The premeditated nature of the attack is evident in his preparation and protective gear, which shielded him from the effects of his own weapons while leaving others vulnerable.
The attack quickly escalated as Akerberg deployed pepper spray at multiple court officers, a police officer, and an assistant district attorney. The caustic chemical compound caused immediate distress among those exposed, creating a scene of panic and confusion.
Beyond the chemical assault, Akerberg physically attacked multiple individuals before law enforcement personnel managed to subdue him. The swift response by security personnel potentially prevented more serious injuries, though several people required medical attention following the incident.
Injuries and Aftermath
Following the attack, Akerberg, a police officer, and two court officers were transported to a local hospital for treatment of their injuries. All were treated and subsequently released. The exposure to pepper spray, while temporarily debilitating, fortunately did not result in life-threatening injuries for any of the victims. The courthouse was temporarily evacuated and operations disrupted while authorities secured the scene and treated those affected by the chemical irritant.
Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan noted with alarm that this was the third serious incident at the courthouse since March 10, suggesting a disturbing pattern of escalating violence targeting the judicial system.
The repeated targeting of this specific courthouse raises serious questions about existing security measures and whether enhanced protocols are now necessary to protect court personnel and the public accessing justice services. The incident has prompted calls for a security review at courthouses across Massachusetts.
Legal Consequences
Akerberg now faces a substantial list of criminal charges following his courthouse rampage. These include six counts of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, disrupting court proceedings, and several other offenses.
During his initial court appearance, a judge ordered him held without bail pending the results of a competency evaluation to determine if he is mentally fit to stand trial. Akerberg is scheduled to return to court on May 2 for a follow-up hearing.
The attack on Woburn District Court represents more than just a violent incident – it strikes at the heart of our justice system. Courthouses are meant to be sanctuaries where legal disputes are resolved peacefully and according to established procedures.
When these spaces become targets of violence, it undermines public confidence in the judicial system and creates an atmosphere of fear for those who must access court services. The severity of charges against Akerberg reflects the serious nature of attacking institutions fundamental to American democracy.
