Update: Man Still Hiding Out Atop SMU Crane
Since 11:30 a.m., a man has been hiding atop a crane on the Eastside of the SMU campus, and as of 4 p.m., the suspect and police are still in a stand off.
The man was reported breaking into the the crane, and upon officers arriving, the man told SMU police that he had a weapon when they approached him. The crane has no power or AC, and a construction radio within the crane are the only way of contacting the man.
Sgt. Cpl. Melinda Gutierrez said SWAT is on site and has been trying to establish communication with the man, but was unaware if there have been any talks between the two. Also, SWAT has requested that all live feeds not be shown of any tactics they may be using.
Guiterrez said SMU Police were informed by the man that he did have a weapon and that he would shoot, but are not confirming that he does in fact have a handgun.
Because of the shooter’s claims, The Park Cities Plaza shopping center was closed down, along with any access going West on Mockingbird Lane from North Central Expressway.
Brad Cheves, Vice President of External Affairs, said SMU was informed at 11:30 a.m. and then took steps to make sure that the any personnel were not in the surrounding buildings. They have since worked with Dallas police.
“Earlier today we were informed that a unidentified man climbed a crane at our residential commons construction site. Fortunetly, the campus is closed for the Memorial Day holiday,” Cheves said. “However, upon being informed that someone had gained access to the construction site, we immediately attempted to secure the area.”
It was suspected that the man is a suspect in Deep Ellum carjacking that took place early this morning, but Gutierrez said they were unable to confirm that at 4 p.m.
Police have had no success in negotiations as there is no way to contact the man. Dallas media relations will be updating as information comes in.
That is creepy. Is he still there?
so a violent criminal is holed up threatening to kill people? Snipers please Take him out, remove the threat and save everyone a trial and cost of incarceration.