Police Negotiate in Hostage Situation at Chase Bank Amid Bomb Threat in Downtown Bakersfield

Evacuations are underway and streets are closed in downtown Bakersfield due to an active hostage situation with a bomb threat at Chase Bank. The Bakersfield Police Department reported on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, that the incident is occurring at the Chase Bank located on 17th Street and Chester Avenue.

The suspect is a man who has made bomb threats and reportedly has a bomb strapped to his body. Police confirmed at least one hostage is involved, and negotiations are actively ongoing.

As a precaution, several city buildings have been locked down, including City Hall North, City Hall South, the Development Services Building, and the Bakersfield Police Headquarters. The public cannot access these properties until further notice.

The area between 18th and Truxtun Avenue and from Chester to H Streets is closed due to the bomb threat. Evacuations are in progress, and police urge the public to stay clear of the area.

This is a developing story.