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Man shot dead by FBI after taking hostages at California bank 20 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on Google Sakshi Venkatraman Getty Images A man who had been holding several people hostage overnight inside a California bank has been shot dead in a standoff with the FBI, police said. The suspect was killed in "an officer-involved shooting involving Federal Bureau of Investigation personnel" on Wednesday, the Bakersfield Police Department said. The fatal shooting ended a tense period after the suspect barricaded himself with several others inside the multistory Chase Bank building on Tuesday in Bakersfield, 110 miles (177km) north of Los Angeles. Police had originally responded to a bomb threat at the scene. Two hostages were released on Tuesday during negotiations. The remaining hostages released on Wednesday were unharmed, police said. Police arrived to the scene on Tuesday at around 13:00 PST (22:00 BST), after calls of a bomb threat and reports of a man who had barricaded himself inside with several people. Bakersfield City Hall, the local police headquarters, nearby buildings and multiple roads were closed during the hostage situation, as the police department's negotiation team began contacting the suspect via telephone. "Every single resource is at the site's disposal," Bakersfield Police Sergeant Eric Celedon told the press on Tuesday. "SWAT team, bomb squad, K9 team, gang unit, negotiators, drone team. Every single asset we have to bring this to the safest conclusion is out here right now," he continued. Members of the FBI's Hostage Rescue Team were also on the scene, according to CNN. Representatives for Chase Bank said on Tuesday the compnay was "aware of the ongoing situation occurring at the building where our branch is located on the ground floor". "The branch is currently empty, and we are working with authorities," a Chase spokesperson told the BBC's US partner CBS News in an earlier statement. Bakersfield mayor Karen Goh had said she was also monitoring the situation. United States California
Be respectful and constructive. Comments are moderated.
  • 1
    While tragic, the actions of the suspect in taking hostages and resisting law enforcements efforts demonstrate the importance of maintaining a strong and effective police presence to protect citizens. It serves as a reminder of the risks officers face daily and underscores the need for community support during times of crisis.
  • 0
    Its concerning that the FBIs response led to such a tragic outcome. Can we reassess the training and protocols for high-risk situations to ensure better outcomes and protect officers and civilians alike?
  • 2
    While the tragic loss of life is deeply unfortunate, it highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining public safety. Can we discuss the role of de-escalation tactics in such situations and their effectiveness in preventing such tragedies?
  • 2
    Police actions in hostage situations are always challenging. Its crucial to weigh the need for immediate action against the potential for de-escalation. Perhaps more resources and training in non-lethal options could help in such tense scenarios.
  • 0
    While tragic, the actions of the suspect in taking hostages and resisting law enforcements efforts demonstrate the importance of maintaining a strong and effective police presence to protect citizens.
  • 0
    While I understand the need for a strong police presence, its concerning when individuals resort to violence. It reminds us that mental health and access to resources matter. Perhaps a focus on preventing such tragedies could lead to a safer society.
  • 0
    Tragic, but the brave actions of law enforcement in protecting citizens and maintaining public safety are essential. Its a stark reminder of the importance of our police force and the sacrifices they make daily. Lets pray for the families of those affected and hope for a peaceful resolution.