NORWOOD – What began as a report of public urination on the Norwood Town Common during the busy Friday morning commute, ended with a warning and an explanation of a medical mishap, according to the Norwood Police Department report.
On Friday, July 3, 2026, at approximately 7:30 a.m., Officers responded to the Town Common following a citizen complaint.
Police say a morning commuter was traveling on Washington Street with his child when he witnessed a man relieving himself in the bushes that surround the gazebo.
The witness stated that while he did not see the man’s exposed anatomy, it was “immediately apparent” what he was doing. Upon arrival, Officer McDonough noted numerous bags and personal belongings scattered near a bench and a nearby MBTA bus stop and identified the subject as a homeless man who frequently stays near the common.
When questioned, the subject explained he had just been dropped off by the bus after visiting a medical clinic. He stated that while sitting on the bench, he suffered a sudden emergency and attempted to walk to the portable restrooms on the opposite side of the common.
Realizing he could not make it, the man claimed he began to urinate in his shorts. At that point, he ducked between a trash can and the gazebo bushes, lifting the hem of his shorts to finish relieving himself without exposing himself to the public. He stressed to the officer that it was a medical accident and an extreme emergency.
Officer McDonough advised the individual of the serious issues regarding public urination on the Town Common, particularly emphasizing the presence of families and children gathered for the holiday weekend. The man reportedly expressed understanding, acknowledged the community’s concern, and stated it would not happen again.
No criminal action was taken, and the incident concluded with a warning regarding future consequences. The matter was documented under incident report 26NWD-594-OF. -RD
