RIVERVIEW, Fla. – The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has successfully resolved a 10-hour hostage situation and standoff in Riverview.
On Thursday at 9:26 p.m., HCSO’s Communication Center received a domestic disturbance-related call at the Allegro Palm apartment complex in Riverview.
Once deputies arrived on the scene, they made contact with a family member who explained that the suspect, Najah Strickland, 29, had barricaded himself in an apartment where he was holding his mother, Chaketa Mister, 47, hostage with a firearm.
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Deputies attempted to contact Strickland multiple times but were unable to do so. HCSO’s SWAT Team, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team, and Crisis Negotiation Team were called to assist.
“Once on scene, they attempted to make contact with Strickland through the front door, at which point he fired several shots at our deputies,” said HCSO.
A short time later, the SWAT team was able to locate Chaketa Mister in the main bedroom and safely remove her from the apartment through the third-floor bedroom window.
“Our deputies quick thinking and bravery allowed them to rescue an innocent victim from a third-story window,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “If our team had not acted swiftly and decisively, this situation could have ended in tragedy.”
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After 10 hours of attempting to get the suspect to come out peacefully, deputies located and apprehended the suspect.
“I am so proud of the dedication and commitment our team shows at every scene, especially after hours of diligent work and attempts to get this suspect to surrender peacefully,” said Sheriff Chronister. “Our deputy’s calm demeanor and decisive actions ensured the safety of everyone involved.”
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