MOUNT PENN, Pa. – Police are investigating a standoff incident in Antietam Valley that drew SWAT teams to the 100 block of Hollywood Avenue early Wednesday night.
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.
Police confirm that the incident is contained. Residents and the public are asked to stay out of the area and avoid the immediate vicinity until further notice.
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 were in a secure status Wednesday afternoon due to their proximity to the incident. The School District posted a statement on social media about the event.
“Students from KCHIS for the Climb after-school program have been dismissed safely, and the middle school volleyball game has been canceled,” the post said.
“Athletes and fans have also been safely dismissed from the HS. Both schools will remain closed for the rest of the evening,” the district 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.