OAN Staff Jenna Lee
4:32 PM – Tuesday, June 2, 2026
Police in Bakersfield, California, have reported an “active” bomb threat and hostage situation at a Chase Bank location in the downtown area.
The suspected bank robber claimed to have bombs strapped to his body and is holding at least one hostage, authorities noted.
“An unidentified male subject is currently barricaded with an unknown number of members of our community. Every single resource is at this site’s disposal,” said Sergeant Eric Celedon of the Bakersfield Police Department.
Law enforcement has since cordoned off a large section of downtown Bakersfield and evacuated surrounding buildings near the Chase Bank branch. As a precaution, city properties — including City Hall and the Bakersfield Police Department headquarters — have been placed on lockdown and are temporarily closed to the public. Police negotiators are on the scene and actively communicating with the suspect in an effort to resolve the standoff safely.
“What I can guarantee to the community right now is that every single resource is at this this site’s disposal – SWAT team, bomb squad, K9 team, gang unit, drone team. Every single asset we have to bring this to the safest conclusion is out here right now, not just ’cause that’s what the community needs, but that’s what you guys deserve,” Celedon continued.
This is a breaking story. Check back for updates.
Stay informed! Receive breaking news alerts directly to your inbox for free. Subscribe here. https://www.oann.com/alerts
Trending: See you later, Alligator Alcatraz? Detention facility gets big news
What do YOU think? Click here to jump to the comments!
Join the conversation!
Please share your thoughts about this article below. We value your opinions, and would love to see you add to the discussion!