Photo: ANDY JACOBSOHN/AFP via Getty
One male victim was released Saturday evening, following an hours-long hostage situation that began in the morning at a synagogue in Colleyville, Texas.
According to astatementfrom the Colleyville Police Department, the victim was released uninjured shortly after 5 p.m. local time and did not require medical attention. Police said that he would be reunited with his family as soon as possible.
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At least four hostages were initially believed to be inside the synagogue, according to three law enforcement officials who spoke to theAssociated Presson the condition of anonymity.
The synagogue’s rabbi was believed to be among the hostages, one of the officials said. One of the officials said the man claimed to be armed but authorities had not confirmed whether he is.
The Colleyville Police Department was on the scene, along with the FBI, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the regional SWAT Team and other neighboring agencies, officials said.
Emil Lippe/Getty
According toABC News, the suspect claimed to have planted explosive devices in unknown locations and was “demanding the release of convicted terrorist Aafia Siddiqui.”
Siddiqui is currently serving an 86-year prison sentence at a facility in Texas.
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki confirmed onTwitterthat PresidentJoe Bidenhad been briefed on the hostage situation. “He will continue to receive updates from his senior team as the situation develops,” she tweeted. “Senior members of the national security team are also in touch with federal law enforcement leadership.”
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott alsotweetedon Saturday that authorities were working with local and federal teams to “achieve the best and safest outcome.“Sen. John CornynandSen. Ted Cruzalso said they were continually monitoring the situation as negotiations remain ongoing.
source: people.com
