SEDGWICK COUNTY - Wichita Police Crisis Negotiators successfully negotiated with a 15-year-old from a rooftop in downtown Wichita after a foot pursuit, according to a media release.
Just after 6p.m. Tuesday Wichita Police Officers were dispatched to a report of juveniles with firearms at an apartment complex near Murdock and Waco.
When officers arrived, they located two juveniles who then fled on foot. One juvenile had a bag over his shoulder that he threw while he ran. This bag contained a stolen handgun.
Officers chased both juveniles on foot when one of them scaled a ladder on a building in the 800 block of N Waco and approached the ledge overlooking the Arkansas river, threatening to jump off.
A First Responder Drone from QuikTrip at 1010 E Douglas was launched by Real Time Information Center staff and a perimeter was established. The drone allowed officers to utilize time and distance while attempting to negotiate with the boy.
ICT Co-Responder Mental Health Teams responded to the scene and Crisis Negotiators were activated. Working interagency collaboration with the Wichita Fire Department, negotiators utilized the bucket of a Fire Truck to access the roof and negotiate with the boy where he eventually surrendered at 8:17 pm.
Police arrested the 15-year-old of Wichita on requested charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Juvenile, Possession of Stolen Property, Resist Arrest and Trespass.
“This case highlights our investment in technology, alternative response and quality training,” Chief Sullivan said, “Today, I’m extremely proud of the efforts of our staff, on the street and in support roles to bring this potentially tragic situation to a safe resolution for everyone.”