The individual responsible for taking 10 individuals hostage inside a Chase Bank branch in Bakersfield, California, has been identified as an Army veteran with a documented history of violent behaviour.
Details of the Incident
The standoff commenced at approximately 1 p.m. on Tuesday when 41-year-old Anthony Scott Searle-Harris seized the hostages, who were employees of a local school district, on the second floor of the building. He claimed to possess explosives during the ordeal.
Of the 10 hostages, five were bound during the standoff. However, authorities have confirmed that none of the captives sustained any physical injuries.
Background of the Suspect
Searle-Harris was a registered sex offender and had been discharged from the U.S. Army after going absent without leave (AWOL). His criminal record included a history of violent offences.
Conclusion of the Standoff
The hostage situation came to an end shortly after 4 a.m. on Wednesday morning when FBI agents fatally shot Searle-Harris. No further details have been released regarding the exact circumstances of the shooting.
