Gunman surrenders after holding several hostage at Elkins Park firehouse, police say
Cheltenham police block Penrose Avenue near LaMott Fire Company after arrestig a gunman who held four people hostage. (Emma Lee/WHYY)
A recently fired volunteer firefighter in Montgomery County was in custody Tuesday afternoon after police said he held a group of fellow firefighters hostage at gunpoint late that morning.
Paul Jordan, 25, entered the La Mott Fire Co. in Elkins Park through an unlocked door around 11 a.m. Once inside, the Philadelphia man held “four to five” men hostage in the basement of the firehouse with a handgun, police said.
Jordan fired a shot into the wall, but no one was harmed, said Lt. John Frye with the Cheltenham Police Department.
“Prior to police arrival, the suspect did fire a round into the wall. At this point, it looks like it was not intended for anybody, but he fired a shot into the wall and said the next one wasn’t going to miss,” said Frye.
Jordan surrendered without incident just before noon after a SWAT team entered the building. Hostage negotiators also spoke to Jordan by phone.
“After a short time, he agreed to release the hostages and then ultimately surrendered himself,” said Frye. The entire incident lasted for about 90 minutes.
Police don’t believe Jordan targeted the hostages.
Police declined to discuss the circumstances of Jordan’s ouster.
Jordan is set to undergo a mental health evaluation at Norristown State Hospital.
Frye said Jordan could face charges of attempted murder, aggravated assault and recklessly endangering another person.
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