Armed Man Taken into Custody after Standoff at Tacoma Islamic Center

IQNA – A man who walked into the Islamic Center of Tacoma, WA, US, with a gun Wednesday afternoon was arrested after a brief standoff with police, and no one was injured, authorities said.

The Tacoma Police Department said officers arrested the man who allegedly entered the mosque with a gun and provoked a standoff with police.

Authorities received notice at 3:23 pm. of an armed intruder at the center, said police spokesperson Shelbie Boyd.

Police evacuated the building and contained the area while the intruder remained in the building, Boyd said.

Before SWAT teams arrived, the intruder left the building in an attempt to flee on foot, but was arrested at 5:30 p.m., Boyd said.

The intruder will be booked into the Pierce County Jail on suspicion of first degree assault, unlawful possession of a firearm, obstructing a law enforcement officer and intimidation with a weapon.

No injuries were reported. Asked what led to the confrontation, Boyd said there was not a dispute, and that officers suspect drugs or mental health challenges could be involved.

Authorities are still on scene clearing the building, Boyd said. If any damage to the property is found, the suspect could face additional charges, Boyd said.

Source: Thenewstribune.com