Man With Hammer and 'God-Complex' Goes On Hammer Rampage in Newington Mall
A man is scheduled in court Friday, charged with seven felonies, after smashing windows and display cases with a hammer in a New Hampshire mall.
Michael Williams began smashing windows and claiming to be God at Fox Run Mall Thursday after he became upset over a failed car inspection. Williams was charged with assault, reckless conduct, and criminal mischief.
Several shoppers dropped to the floor mistaking the noise for gunfire. William’s mom cited the incident as a “cry for help”. She said Williams was one of 11 children and that he had just been released from a mental hospital.
She told the judge, "I know they shouldn't have let him out. He should have been treated.”
Police made the arrest at 1:15 p.m. after Williams retired to a mall bench, released the hammer, and surrendered himself. One mall employee was injured after a glass piece fell on her while she was attempting to clean.
Williams is due in court Friday for a probable cause hearing. According to Seacoast Online, Williams has been charged in the past for similar offenses. Charges are alleged to be as much as $10,500. Williams would not make a statement in court, however is mother apologized for the damages and said, “That’s not my Michael.”