HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Deputies with the Hanover County Sheriff’s Office were called to a “hostage situation” they believe to be related to a commercial fire in the area . After an hours-long standoff, the suspect reportedly shot and killed himself.
According to authorities, a call for a hostage situation on Rapidan Way came a few minutes after a fire was reported in the 9800 block of Atlee Commons Drive, around 5 a.m.
UPDATE: Suspect in Hanover arson, hostage situation identified, new details from Sheriff’s Office
A spokesperson with the sheriff’s office said the suspect, an adult male, was an employee at the business involved in the fire. Witnesses said they saw the man was wearing “makeshift” body armor.
Following that commercial building fire, authorities said the suspect went to his former girlfriend’s residence. Two roommates at the home either escaped or were allowed to leave upon his arrival, according to authorities. They called emergency services shortly after.