THUNDER BAY – Police say they have secured the site of an hours-long police standoff that saw officers in tactical gear surround a Current River residence.
Nobody had been taken into custody as a result of the standoff, police said.
However, the area around the home in the 400s block of Conmee Street was once again open to the public, the force announced around 2:30 p.m.
Police continued to hold a scene as they investigate the incident that led to the response. Officers responded to reports of a disturbance involving a “possible male with a firearm” in the area just after 7 a.m.
The police response was heavy with dozens of officers, many in tactical gear and several keeping weapons drawn from behind parked police vehicles. A command post vehicle was also present at the scene.
Police formed barricades at several intersections, including at Gertrude and Vera avenues, and removed some neighbours from their homes under protection from officers with weapons drawn.
Members of the public were asked to stay away from the area, while nearby residents were advised to shelter in place.
Insp. Ryan Gibson said late Tuesday morning police were “anticipating a successful resolution.”
A team of officers in body armour approached the residence at one point early Tuesday afternoon, deploying what appeared to be a flash-bang or stun grenade.
A police spokesperson said the force was attempting to make contact with anyone inside of the home, with at least one one person believed to be present.
A next-door neighbour who was escorted out of his home and released by police said he had been sleeping and had not noticed a disturbance prior to being woken up by officers.
The TBPS called for anyone with information that could assist investigators to call police at 684-1200 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, or online at www.p3tips.com
With files from Brianne Foley, TBT News.
