A bank robber, claiming that he had a bomb inside his body, was still holding hostages at a Chase Bank in Bakersfield on Wednesday morning.
While police negotiators managed to persuade the suspect to release two hostages over the phone, it’s still unclear how many hostages he had remaining. Some individuals had successfully escaped the banking location after the man barricaded himself inside on Tuesday.
No injuries were reported following the incident. According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the situation began on Tuesday evening around 6 p.m. when the suspect took multiple community members hostage.
Despite ongoing negotiations, no arrests have been made as crisis teams continue to communicate with the suspect.
Later that night, around 9 p.m., police announced that they had successfully negotiated the release of another hostage. “We’re still present at the Chase Bank and continue to work towards the release of others,” the police stated. “Currently, there are no reports of injuries. Please stay clear of the area as it remains active. We will provide updates when new information arises.”
The FBI reportedly launched a “SWAT operation” in response to the hostage situation. They have stated that they would be on site to provide support throughout the night.
Bakersfield’s Mayor expressed that she was monitoring the unfolding events closely. “The best way for the public to assist right now is by avoiding the area and allowing law enforcement and trained professionals the space to handle the situation safely,” she mentioned.
Police had received reports of a bomb threat inside the bank earlier that day. Some police communications indicated that the suspect might have a makeshift detonator in his possession.
The area was cordoned off between 18th Avenue and Truxtan Street, including the vicinity between Chester Street and H Street.
