Kevin Wilson
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Mar 29/02) - A possibly-armed man in a downtown residence late Thursday afternoon resulted in a dramatic police presence as they closed off an entire city block.

Pedestrians and motorists were diverted, an armed SWAT team was dispatched, and police could be heard calling into a home situated directly behind Home Hardware on 51st Street.

At approximately 4:00 p.m., ambulance attendants informed police an armed man uttered threats while they were in attendance at the residence.

Two other occupants, a male and female, were also in the home.

"The area was cordoned off and negotiation teams were brought in," said RCMP spokesperson Al McCambridge.

Police closed off roads from Franklin Avenue to 52 Avenue and between 51 Street to 52 Street.

At approximately 5:15 p.m., RCMP emergency response team units were observed taking up positions around the house.

"This is the police. Can you hear me?"

A man exited the house and was taken into custody at 5:21 p.m.

At approximately 5:30 p.m., a police officer could be heard shouting into the home.

"Helen," the voice said.

McCambridge said police continue to investigate and charges are expected.