NORTH LITTLE ROCK — An intoxicated man wielding a knife ran down the aisle of a North Little Rock church Tuesday night before officials were able to restrain him and escort him from the premises, police said.
Esker Martin, 43, is facing preliminary charges of public intoxication, disorderly conduct and carrying a weapon.
According to a North Little Rock Police Department report, Martin ran down the aisle of First Baptist Church, 2015 Main St., about 8:30 p.m. during a service. Police say he was "yelling and screaming" and for a time had the knife in his hand, dropping it before reaching the front of the church.
According to the report, deacons restrained him there and removed him from the church.
Police made contact with Martin outside, where he was reported to be "very intoxicated" as he yelled obscenities at the deacons. Police say Martin admitted having the knife.
Martin is due in North Little Rock District Court for an initial appearance later Wednesday morning.
