Tampa police resolve barricaded suspect situation peacefully

TAMPA, Florida — Tampa police successfully resolved a tense standoff with an armed suspect on Tuesday afternoon.

At 10:19 a.m., officers responded to a call in the 3300 block of W. Arch St. after a utility worker reported being threatened by an armed man, identified as 64-year-old Robert Kelley, of Tampa, Florida, according to a press release from the Tampa Police Department. Kelley, who has a history of military service and claimed to suffer from PTSD, retreated into his residence when officers arrived.

As a precaution, surrounding homes were evacuated to ensure the safety of neighbors. The Tampa Police SWAT Team, including hostage negotiators, was deployed to assist in resolving the situation. Officers worked for hours to persuade Kelley to exit the home peacefully. Despite several approaches to the doors and windows, Kelley repeatedly retreated inside.

Just after 3:30 p.m., officers executed a court-ordered warrant and deployed CS gas into the residence. At 4:12 p.m., members of the SWAT team used a taser on Kelley as he exited the house and took him into custody.

“I want to commend the exceptional work of our officers in resolving this tense situation,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Their patience, dedication, training, and unwavering commitment to ensuring public safety were evident throughout this event. We are grateful for the cooperation of the residents in the area for their support and understanding as every officer worked to de-escalate the situation and bring it to a peaceful conclusion.”

Kelley is being charged with aggravated assault with a firearm. Additional charges may be pending based on the conclusion of the investigation. Kelley will be transported to Orient Road Jail. The investigation remains active as detectives complete their search warrant for the house.