Local

Flashbang used to end overnight standoff in Indiana Township, police say

A situation escalated overnight in Indiana Township when a man fired shots then barricaded himself inside of a home, and police said he threatened officers.

Law enforcement was called to Dennis Drive just after 2 a.m. after neighbors said the man, identified as Eric Braun, 45, came outside and was shooting a gun.

“In the statement that we were given…[he said] that he was going to get an AK assault rifle…and if the police come, they’re going to get one,” said Chief Steve Colucci of the Indiana Township Police Department.

That’s one of the reasons Colucci said his department activated the North Hills Special Response Team (SRT) — officers from multiple municipalities that can assist in situations like this, using infrared drones to make sure he didn’t escape and other tactics.

They used a flashbang to get Braun to come out, police told Channel 11.

“When they’re responding to a call like that, it’s the unknown…you don’t know what’s on the other end,” Colucci said. “Once the flashbags were utilized, he did come to the window, then they ordered him to come to the door, which he did, and went down to his knees and followed all orders.”

Braun is now in custody, charged with terroristic threats and disorderly conduct.

We’re told two people were inside with Braun at the time, although he wasn’t holding them against their will.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW