OAN Staff Jenna Lee
Tuesday, June 2, 2026
UPDATE: – 7:39 pm PT: Bakersfield Mayor Karen Goh released a statement regarding the hostage situation occurring at Chase Bank.
“We continue to closely monitor the situation unfolding in our city and remain concerned for the safety and well-being of everyone involved. I am grateful for the swift response and ongoing dedication of the brave men and women of the Bakersfield Police Department, who continue to serve and protect our community. I appreciate the collaboration and coordinated efforts of our law enforcement partners and other responding agencies. Thank you to the many who have reached out in concern. The best way the public can help at this time is by avoiding the area and allowing law enforcement officers, negotiators and other trained professionals the space and opportunity to safely carry out their duties. The Bakersfield Police Department will continue to provide updates as appropriate. We ask the community to keep those affected in their prayers,” said Goh.
UPDATE – 5:50 pm PT: As of 5 p.m., Bakersfield Police announced the release of one detainee by the suspect. All of the other detainees are in good health, according to authorities.
4:32 pm– 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.
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