Midtown saw a massive emergency response Wednesday as a man threatened to leap from his 20-story apartment after a warrant was issued for his arrest by the FBI, police confirmed.
According to police sources, the suspect spent several hours in talks with law enforcement. According to sources familiar with the investigation, the man smashed his window and climbed onto the ledge inside his apartment at 150 West 56 Street at around 8:40 a.m. on March 22 after the FBI attempted to execute a warrant for arrest.
Not wanting to go in cuffs, the man was speaking with hostage negotiation all morning and afternoon while remaining seated on the windowsill. NYPD cordoned-off the building while paramedics and emergency services waited on standby. The mayor arrived on scene to aid with the investigation and told reporters to have patience as the police attempt to resolve the stalemate.
It is not currently known why the man was wanted by the FBI.
With negotiations hitting a standstill, NYPD ESU members took dramatic action shortly after 4:40 p.m. The elite unit rappelled out of the 31st floor and and lowered themselves down to the 20th floor where they entered through the suspect’s window and made the arrest.
A man could be seen being taken into custody by officers.
In the evening, top cop Keechant Sewell thanked ESU for the dramatic rescue during a press conference at police headquarters.
“This is another example of your NYPD working alongside our partners, putting their lives on the line every day in furtherance of public safety and the city,” Commissioner Sewell said.
NYPD Chief of Department Jeffery Maddrey also commended ESU for ensuring that the man did not lose his life.
“ESU made a decision that he would not die today and they stuck to that decision and they kept their word,” Chief Maddrey said.
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