A bomb threat and hostage situation is ongoing at a Chase Bank in Bakersfield, California, the Bakersfield Police Department said in a Tuesday post on X/Twitter.
Officers were called to the bank at around 1 p.m., where a man reportedly barricaded himself inside with several people. Police say he has been making bomb threats and appears to have a device strapped to his body.
SWAT, the bomb squad, crisis negotiators, a drone team, K9 units, and federal partners are on scene to protect the community and work toward the safest possible resolution, Bakersfield Now reported.
The Bakersfield Police crisis negotiation team, assisted by the FBI’s negotiators, is in contact with the suspect.
The FBI Sacramento office tweeted, “FBI Sacramento is aware of the crisis in progress near the corner of 17th Street and Chester Ave. in Bakersfield, California, and is sending resources to assist @BakersfieldPD. Please avoid the area.”
Two hostages released, more remain inside
As of 9 p.m., two hostages have been released, though several remain inside the bank.
“At this time, everybody else still remains inside the building, and everybody else still remains in good health,” said BPD Sergeant Eric Celedon.
Local authorities have issued alerts about street closures, lockdowns, and public safety measures. No arrests have been made, and the public is urged to avoid the downtown area to allow emergency services to manage the situation safely.
Bakersfield Mayor Goh thanks local police for 'swift response, ongoing dedication'
"We continue to closely monitor the situation unfolding in our city and remain concerned for the safety and well-being of everyone involved," Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh said, local news cited.
"I am grateful for the swift response and ongoing dedication of the brave men and women of the Bakersfield Police Department, who continue to serve and protect our community. I appreciate the collaboration and coordinated efforts of our law enforcement partners and other responding agencies," Goh added.
"Thank you to the many who have reached out in concern. The best way the public can help at this time is by avoiding the area and allowing law enforcement officers, negotiators, and other trained professionals the space and opportunity to safely carry out their duties," she continued.
"The Bakersfield Police Department will continue to provide updates as appropriate. We ask the community to keep those affected in their prayers," she stated.