Bakersfield bank robber with bombs strapped to his body holds hostage as cops swarm

A high-stakes hostage situation has prompted evacuations, street closures, and government building lockdowns across downtown Bakersfield, California on Tuesday, as police worked to resolve a standoff involving a man who allegedly threatened a bombing inside a Chase Bank.

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the incident unfolded at the Chase Bank located on 17th Street and Chester Avenue.

Authorities said the suspect is a man who was making bomb threats and appeared to have a bomb strapped to his body.

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the incident unfolded at the Chase Bank located on 17th Street and Chester Avenue. KBAK Bakerfield Now

Police confirmed that at least one hostage was being held during the incident.

Negotiators were actively communicating with the suspect as officers worked to bring the situation to a safe resolution.

In response to the threat, law enforcement shut down a large section of downtown Bakersfield.

Officials said the area bounded by 18th Street and Truxtun Avenue, and between Chester Avenue and H Street, was closed because of the bomb threat.

The City of Bakersfield said it was aware of an ongoing incident at a private property near several municipal facilities.

As a precaution, City Hall North, City Hall South, the Development Services Building and Bakersfield Police Headquarters were placed on lockdown until further notice. 

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