SWAT team finds no one inside after surrounding home, evacuating neighbors

PITTSBURGH — A SWAT team has entered a home in Pittsburgh’s Homewood neighborhood and did not find anyone inside.

The incident unfolded on Stranahan Street, which was blocked off between Apple and Oberlin streets.

Pittsburgh police said they received a call from the home Tuesday morning saying the suspect, Rico Hall, had assaulted a child and they needed help.

"He had a history that is violent that includes other domestic violence incidents, he was recently released from prison and there is currently a warrant for him for a parole violation," said Pittsburgh police Cmdr. Reyne Kasuta.

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When officers arrived, they were under the impression that Hall was armed and has barricaded himself into the home.

Police said the man they were looking for is a violent convicted criminal.

Channel 11's Jennifer Tomazic reported flash bangs were set off, a door was blown off and authorities were calling for a man to come out of the home.

Some neighbors, including children, were evacuated from the area around 7 a.m. A SWAT officer was seen carrying a baby from the area about 10:30 a.m.

After five hours, the SWAT team realized he wasn't inside and detectives are now looking for him elsewhere.

"Zone 5 officers will obtain an arrest warrant for aggravated assault against a child for Mr. Hall," Kasuta said.

Cox Media Group