NEWTON, N.J. — Authorities have located and apprehended James “Mac” Alston, the suspect who prompted a shelter-in-place advisory in the Merriam Avenue area Friday, according to the Newton Police Department.
Police had earlier warned residents about an individual they described as armed and dangerous and urged anyone who encountered him not to approach or make contact.
The search led to a significant law enforcement response as officers worked to locate the suspect and secure the surrounding area.
In an update, the Newton Police Department confirmed that Alston has been located and taken into custody.
“Subject has been located and apprehended. There is NO current or active threat,” the department said. Authorities thanked residents and others who assisted law enforcement during the search. 
The earlier incident reportedly involved Thorlabs in Newton, although investigators have not yet released additional details about what led to the police response or the circumstances surrounding the apprehension.
With the suspect in custody, officials said there is no ongoing threat to the public.The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information may be released as authorities continue to review the incident.
Residents can now be reassured that the immediate danger has ended, according to police.