Threat of explosive chemicals forces residents in Eagle Point to evacuate

Update 11:09 pm: Following a lengthy negotiation, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office confirms the man has been taken into custody. He was transferred from their SWAT team and turned over to Eagle Point Police. Residents are allowed to return to their homes. We’re still waiting for word on what prompted this standoff and the nature of the suspected chemicals inside the home. Watch NBC5 News at Sunrise for continuing coverage.

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Update 10:34 pm: The standoff, which started sometime around 6:30 p.m. Thursday, continues at this hour. Deputies on scene say it could take several hours before the man comes out and they are prepared to spend the night on scene.

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EAGLE POINT, Ore. – Police say a man with potentially hazardous or explosive chemicals has barricaded himself inside a residence on the 700 block of Sarah Park Circle in Eagle Point. Through much of the evening, those living nearby have either been unable to return to their homes or, in some cases, leave. Several agencies are on scene – including SWAT, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Eagle Point Police and K-9 detection units. At this time, police say the man has not left the residence.

Those who can’t return home are asked by law enforcement to go to one of two temporary evacuation centers, Outback Gym or Eagle Point Bible Church at 27 South Shasta Avenue.

This is a developing situation. You can count on further updates both here and tonight on NBC5 News at 11.