By: Richard L. Smith
A tense early morning standoff in Bergen County ended in tragedy Wednesday after a man who fled from police and barricaded himself inside a residence fatally shot himself, according to authorities.
The incident unfolded around 5:30 a.m. on Lake Avenue in Lyndhurst, where officers initially approached the individual outside a home while attempting to execute an arrest warrant issued out of Union County.
According to information released by the Bergen County Prosecutor’s Office, the man ran into the residence and barricaded himself inside, prompting an immediate escalation in the response.
Members of the Bergen County Regional SWAT Team were called to the scene and quickly established a perimeter around the home.
As a precaution, police shut down Lake Avenue between Orient Way and Summit Avenue and instructed nearby residents to shelter in place, some being directed to remain in their basements.
Officials also alerted parents and staff connected to Columbus Elementary School, located nearby, advising them to avoid the area during the active situation.
Authorities said SWAT negotiators attempted to communicate with the man from outside the home. However, during those efforts, the individual—who was reportedly alone inside—shot himself.
SWAT personnel entered the residence moments later and located the man deceased, according to Bergen County Chief of Detectives Jeff Angermeyer.
As is standard protocol, the case has been referred to the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office of Public Integrity and Accountability, which investigates all fatal incidents involving law enforcement presence.
The identity of the man has not yet been released pending notification of family members. The investigation remains active.