BUCKHANNON — The City of Buckhannon sent out the following press release Tuesday afternoon in response to events that transpired Monday on North Florida Street involving a suicide threat with firearms.
According to the statement from city information coordinator and grant writer Callie Cronin Sams, “On Monday afternoon, the Buckhannon Police Department responded to a call at a residence at 54 N. Florida Street for a threatened suicide involving firearms. Upon arrival, officers were able to talk the individual into dropping his weapons and detained him until he could be transported to St. Joseph’s Hospital for evaluation.
“Upon further investigation, explosive devices and bomb-making materials were discovered in a room adjacent to the male subject’s bedroom. The explosive devices were safely removed from the residence by the West Virginia State Police Bomb disposal unit. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation responded to the scene to assist as needed.”
The releases says the Buckhannon Police Department is conducting the investigation with the assistance of the West Virginia Natural Resources Police, the West Virginia State Police, the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office, Upshur County Office of Emergency Management, Buckhannon Fire Department and Upshur County Emergency Medical Services.
According to the release, the investigation is ongoing.
“The incident remains under investigation and the subject’s name is being withheld pending results of the investigation,” it says. “More details will be available upon completion of the investigation.”
According to the statement, the Buckhannon Police Department, led by Chief Matt Gregory, employs 11 full-time officers, one part-time, and one administrative assistant. The department is responsible for community safety, crime prevention and apprehension of offenders. The Buckhannon Police Department is currently seeking national accreditation through the CALEA program, which ensures compliance with national regulations and best practices in policing and crime reduction.
In an emergency, call 911. To report a crime via the anonymous tip line, call 304-473-1001. For assistance or questions, please call 304-472-5723.