UMVA has learned that a dramatic and terrifying standoff unfolded in Bakersfield, California, where a registered sex offender and former U.S. Army soldier allegedly strapped explosives to himself and multiple hostages at a downtown bank building.
The suspect, identified as Anthony Scott Searles-Harris, 41, was fatally shot by FBI agents after a tense, nearly 16-hour standoff that left all hostages unharmed but shaken. Searles-Harris had a history of violent offenses and was a registered sex offender.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Searles-Harris served in the U.S. Army from 2006 to 2007 but was dishonorably discharged after going absent without leave. His troubled past included a 2014 arrest for sex acts with a child under 14.
The incident began on Tuesday when the Bakersfield Police Department received a call about a bomb threat at the Chase Bank building. Searles-Harris had barricaded himself on the second floor, taking five of 10 hostages and claiming to have explosives attached to himself and some of the hostages.
Authorities confirmed that multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs) were involved, and additional concerning items were found. As the standoff progressed, Searles-Harris released two hostages, but it was unclear if he was aware of the remaining hostages.
FBI SWAT teams took over the scene, and the Hostage Rescue Team ultimately fatally shot Searles-Harris. One hostage, who was diabetic, had managed to communicate with authorities through her phone until it died.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that negotiators believed Searles-Harris was frustrated with how his previous case had been handled and was seeking notoriety by targeting a federal institution. He mentioned his daughter during negotiations, adding a personal dimension to the crisis.
The bank, JPMorgan Chase, released a statement expressing gratitude to law enforcement for their swift response and relief that the hostages were safe. The branch remains closed, and the company is focused on supporting its employees during this difficult time.
