A welfare check in southwest Oklahoma City led to a police standoff this afternoon, according to authorities. Officers established a perimeter and attempted to contact people inside a home while multiple police units secured the area.
A police helicopter was seen overhead, and the street was closed as the situation unfolded. Police have not released information on whether anyone was injured or how many people may still be inside the home.
According to News 9, officers were called to the 4000 block of Southwest 26th Street after initial reports of gunfire and began a welfare check at a nearby residence. SkyNews photographer Bob Mills captured images of officers taking positions around the property as the perimeter went up. The outlet reported the standoff remained active this afternoon while investigators worked the scene and gathered details.
Why welfare checks can escalate
When a welfare check comes with reports of possible gunfire, it is no longer a simple knock at the door. Patrol units, often backed by tactical teams if things look volatile, are the ones who respond. Materials from the Oklahoma City Police Department describe the agency’s patrol divisions and emergency-response roles in situations like these…