Bakersfield update: Chase Bank bomb threat, hostage situation; first details on suspects as horrific video emerges
one hostage That’s what’s happening at a Chase Bank branch in downtown Bakersfield, Kern County, california Tuesday even bomb threat was made. Bakersfield Police Department famous “We are on scene at the Chase Bank Building at Chester Avenue and 17th Street for a confirmed bomb threat. Please stay away from the downtown area. Road closures are in effect and will remain in effect until further notice.”
They also shared a photo.
The impasse has been going on for some time. Others also shared horrific visuals of the scene.
A video shared showed a heavy police presence and the area was cordoned off. Here’s everything you need to know about the suspect.
Bakersfield bomb threat, hostage situation: Suspect details
The man was described as a suspected bank robber, the New York Post reported. He reportedly had a bomb strapped to his body and took hostages.
Police cleared the area and blocked off streets after the attempted robbery. The man reportedly had a bomb strapped to his torso. The publication noted that police confirmed that the suspect had taken at least one hostage.
The person’s name has not yet been released. “At this time, an unknown male subject is on lockdown along with an unknown number of members of our community. All resources at this location are available,” said Sergeant Eric Celedon of the Bakersfield Police Department. ABC 23.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security are assisting in the investigation. Police were notified at around 1pm that the man had made threats at the bank. Sacramento FBI explain “FBI Sacramento is aware of the ongoing crisis at the corner of 17th Street and Chester Avenue in Bakersfield, CA and is sending resources to assist @BakersfieldPD. Please avoid the area.”
Chase Bank is now surrounded by police and the public is being asked to avoid the area. Many city buildings have been cordoned off as a precaution while the situation is managed. These include City Hall North, City Hall South, the Development Services Building and Bakersfield Police Headquarters.
In addition to multiple police cars, there were reportedly at least one tactical vehicle, multiple emergency personnel and a police command center vehicle. According to reports, negotiations are continuing and the hostages are currently in good condition.
Bakersfield hostage situation, bomb threat: reactions from all sides
The situation in Bakersfield comes as voting is underway in California’s gubernatorial race. Someone noticed this and wrote on
another person famous “As a precaution, our officers sent us home. Apparently, there was a hostage situation and bomb threat at one of the KCSOS downtown locations on the corner of Chester Avenue and 17th Street. I pray that everyone involved makes it home safely.”
