A standoff is underway after a reported bomb threat at a bank in California, according to authorities.
The bomb threat was reported at a Chase bank building in downtown Bakersfield around 1 p.m. local time Tuesday, police said.
Authorities respond following a reported bomb threat at the Chase Bank Building in Bakersfield, California, June 2, 2026.
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An unidentified man entered the bank and is currently “barricaded” with an unknown number of people, according to Bakersfield Police Department Sgt. Eric Celedon.
“I’m not using the H word,” Celedon told reporters, referring to the word “hostage.” But, he continued, “there is an unidentified male subject in there with an unknown number of our community members, and they refuse to come out at this point.”
At this moment, everyone inside is safe, and crisis negotiators are in contact with the individual over the phone, according to police.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security are assisting, and other resources are coming in from throughout the state, police said.
Several buildings in the surrounding area have been evacuated, police said. The Chase bank is located at Chester Avenue and 17th Street.
Authorities respond following a reported bomb threat at the Chase Bank Building in Bakersfield, California, June 2, 2026.
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“This is a very active scene,” Celedon said while urging people to avoid the area.
“Every single resource is at this site’s disposal — 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.”
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.