MOUNT PENN, Pa. – SWAT teams are on the scene of a standoff in the 100 block of Hollywood Avenue in Antietam Valley.
69 News crews on the scene confirm there are several emergency response crews at the residence, including firefighters, police, and armed officers.
Initial reports say that the incident began as a welfare check, which led to a fire breaking out at the home.
Crews on scene say that a man remains barricaded inside the house.
Residents that the 69 News crew spoke with said they heard gunfire and what sounded like multiple explosions coming from the house. One man said he’d never seen anything like it.
“We were sitting there watching the Philles, heard all the noise; it was pretty frightening. A lot of guys putting on technical gear, rifles, it’s kinda scary. I’m surprised and kinda shook up a little bit,” said Berks County resident John Giradiello.
Jimmy Raxasena | WFMZ-TV
Antietam High School and intermediate schools are currently in a secure status due to their proximity to the incident. The School District posted a statement on social media about the event.
“There is current law enforcement and fire department activity in the area of Antietam HS. Students on site are safe, and we will communicate again about dismissing from the Climb after-school program,” the district posted.
“Visitors for the MS volleyball game cannot be admitted until the situation has been cleared. Those already in the building are safe and continuing their activity,” they added.
Berks County District Attorney John Adams is aware of the situation.
This is a developing story. Stick with 69 News on the web and on the air for updates.