A standoff in Adams County, Pennsylvania, concluded peacefully last night after a man barricaded himself inside a home for nearly five hours. The incident began when Pennsylvania State Police responded to reports of trespassing at a residence near the intersection of King and Abbottstown streets in East Berlin.
The suspect, identified as Matthew Miller, allegedly broke into a relative's home after being asked to leave earlier in the day. According to CBS 21 News, Miller attempted to re-enter the home after being told he was not on the lease and was not allowed to stay there. Reports indicated he might have had access to a gun inside the residence.
When Miller refused to exit the home, the Pennsylvania State Police Special Emergency Response Team was called in. Tactical teams surrounded the house, using loudspeakers, flash bangs, and police sirens in an attempt to coax Miller out. Eventually, Miller surrendered peacefully, exiting the home with his hands up around 9 p.m. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Following his arrest, Miller was taken to Gettysburg Hospital for evaluation before being transported to Adams County Prison for arraignment. Neighbors reported that the standoff stemmed from a domestic dispute between Miller and his mother. John Schlaline, chair of the East Berlin planning committee, noted that there had been ongoing issues at the residence, with Miller seen sleeping outside on the staircase in recent months.