2 Hostages Freed Amid Bomb Threat, Standoff at Calif. Bank

A bomb threat at a downtown Bakersfield bank turned into an overnight hostage standoff that was still unresolved as of early Wednesday, though two people have been released unharmed. Police say they received a call around 1pm on Tuesday about a man who'd barricaded himself with multiple people inside a Chase Bank and claimed to have a bomb, per the New York Times. Negotiators reached the man by phone and secured the release of two hostages; authorities haven't said how many remain inside, though a police spokesperson said they're in "good health," with no injuries reported, per the AP.

The FBI took over SWAT operations late Tuesday and described the situation as ongoing in a 2:30am update, per the Times. Mayor Karen Goh urged residents to steer clear of the area so law enforcement and negotiators can work. "This is the biggest police presence I've ever seen in this town," one local told the AP of the scene. The incident unfolded as California held its primary elections, prompting State Assemblymember and congressional candidate Jasmeet Bains to call off her downtown Bakersfield election-night watch party, per the Times. The Bakersfield Police Department said it would release more details as they emerge.