West Chester Shelter In Place Prompted By Suicidal Person

WEST CHESTER, PA — A police incident late Monday that required some West Chester residents to shelter in place was a response to a person who was suicidal and possibly armed, police reported on Tuesday.

The West Chester Police Department said it was asked to check on the well-being of someone living in the 200 block of N Everhart Avenue on Monday around 4:30 p.m.

While investigating, officers found indications that the subject was suicidal and may have been armed, the Department reported.

After patrol officers were unable to make contact with the person, they called on the West Chester Regional Emergency Response Team to assist them, the report said.

Borough residents in the area were told to shelter in place throughout Monday evening. West Chester Police reported around 8:30 p.m. "the incident remains active."

Before 10 p.m. Monday Police sent out notifications that the situation was resolved, and stated the situation had been brought to a "peaceful resolution."

"We thank everyone for their patience, support, and assistance," a Police Department social media post said Monday night.

Residents expressed fear and support for police as the situation unfolded through the evening while residents did not know what was happening. Commenters surmised there was an active shooter while others insisted the public had a right to know what was happening. Dozens of messages thanking police were posted during and after the incident.

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