Man swinging switchblade in downtown area arrested, police say

MADISON, Wis. — A man who was seen swinging a knife in downtown Madison Wednesday morning was arrested, police said.

Madison police said a a frightened downtown resident called police at 8:33 a.m. after she said she saw a man pull out a switchblade and act as if he was practicing for a knife fight.

The 22-year-old said there were many pedestrians in the area of West Gilman Street and State Street, where the man was displaying the weapon, the report said.

She told an officer she was afraid he was going to attack someone.

Police said they found 36-year-old Andrew J. Fischer, who initially gave the officer a fake name.

Officers found a 7-inch knife with a spring-loaded blade in Fischer’s pocket, according to the report. Fischer admitted to having the knife out but said he wasn’t trying to hurt anyone.

Fischer was arrested on suspicion of disorderly conduct while armed, obstructing police and on a warrant.

According to the report, Fischer is homeless.

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