Tampa Police Take Barricaded Subject Into Custody After Hours of Negotiation

TAMPA, FL. (September 10, 2024) -- At 10:19 am, the Tampa Police Department are currently working to resolve a barricaded subject call in the 3300 block of W. Arch St.

Officers responded when a utility worker encountered an armed white male, later identified as 64-year-old Robert Kelley (9/24/1959), who made threats to shoot the worker. Three officers were immediately dispatched, with six additional officers assigned as back-up one minute later. Kelley then retreated into his residence. The officers arrived within 5 minutes.

Upon arrival, officers attempted to persuade Kelley, the sole occupant, to exit the home peacefully. However, Kelley, who has a history of military service and claimed to be suffering from PTSD, refused to cooperate and returned inside.

As a precautionary measure, surrounding homes were evacuated to ensure the safety of neighbors. The Tampa Police SWAT Team, including hostage negotiators, was deployed to the scene to assist in resolving the situation.

For hours, officers worked diligently to reach a peaceful resolution and have Kelley exit the home. Although he made several approaches to the doors and windows of the home, each time he retreated inside.

Just after 3:30 pm, officers approached the home to execute a court-ordered warrant and take Kelley into custody. After giving repeated instructions over a public address system for the man to exit the home, officers deployed CS gas into the residence. At 4:12 pm. members of the Tampa Police SWAT team deployed a taser on the subject and took Kelley into custody as he exited the house.

“I want to commend the exceptional work of our officers in resolving this tense situation,” said Chief Lee Bercaw. “Their patience, dedication, training, and unwavering commitment to ensuring public safety were evident throughout this event. We are grateful for the cooperation of the residents in the area for their support and understanding as every officer worked to de-escalate the situation and bring it to a peaceful conclusion.”

Kelley is being charged with Aggravated Assault with a Firearm. Additional charges may be pending based on the conclusion of the investigation. This remains an active investigation as detectives now complete their search warrant for the house. Kelley will be transported to Orient Road Jail.