TEMPLE TERRACE, Fla. – A tense standoff unfolded in Temple Terrace on Monday evening, September 9th, after a man barricaded himself inside an apartment following an alleged arson attempt.
The incident prompted the deployment of the SWAT team and culminated in the suspect’s arrest after several hours of negotiations and the use of chemical agents.
At approximately 8:00 PM, Temple Terrace Police responded to a distress call at 11500 Summit West Blvd, Unit 40C. A man was reportedly setting his living room on fire and brandishing a handgun.
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Upon arrival, officers observed smoke and the suspect on the porch. As they attempted communication, the suspect retreated inside and barricaded himself.
The situation escalated with the suspect seen possessing an AR15, a shotgun, and several handguns. He also attempted to start another fire. The Temple Terrace Police Department’s SWAT team was activated.
Negotiations continued for several hours, during which less lethal force options were deployed unsuccessfully. After obtaining warrants, and given the suspect’s continued refusal to cooperate and the presence of multiple weapons, chemical agents were introduced into the apartment.
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With assistance from the Tampa Police Department Bomb Team’s robot, SWAT officers safely entered and apprehended the suspect, identified as Nicolas Starr. A search of the residence uncovered several weapons.
Starr was arrested and charged with Arson and Felony Criminal Mischief. He was transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries.
Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Temple Terrace Police Department at (813) 989-7110.
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