We are apparently nearing the end of an armed police standoff with a female hostage in Gering that has lasted more than 24 hours with no reports of any injuries to anyone.
Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Troy Brown confirmed to KNEB News about 3:30 that the suspect, 37-year old Bradley Garcia, had released the hostage about 1:30 pm after extensive negotiations with an FBI team from Virginia.
Although SWAT personnel and an armored assault vehicle have been at the scene for many hours, authorities appear to be willing to wait out Garcia since he no longer has a hostage.
Scottsbluff Police Captain Jason Rogers told KNEB News last night that the incident started when Garcia refused to stop just west of Gering for a traffic violation based on the vehicle’s possible connection to stolen guns.
Scotts Bluff County Sheriff’s deputies began a pursuit on Five Rocks Road, during which Garcia shot at a cruiser. During the chase, it was found that Garcia had an outstanding arrest warrant.
The pursuit moved onto city streets before Garcia crashed his car into a garage at a home and went into the house, which was occupied by a woman and her 2 girls. She is reportedly related to Garcia by marriage.
The girls were released about 5:00 yesterday afternoon while the mother remained a hostage until her release about 1:30 this afternoon.
Gering schools went on lockdown about 3:30 yesterday and classes were canceled today out of what district officials call “an abundance of caution” because the safety of staff and students is the priority.
Early in the standoff, Garcia opened a live Facebook feed and his hostage was allowed to speak with family members.
KNEB reporter Ryan Murphy said he heard gunshots shortly after the children were released from the house yesterday afternoon and the station reported during the 2:00 pm hour of hearing explosions thought to be flash-bang grenades.
Authorities on bullhorns were also heard multiple times during that hour commanding Garcia to come out of the house with his hands up.- which he ignored.