Authorities say a local man held a woman and children hostage with a knife while involved in a standoff with police.

The incident happened on Sunday afternoon when officers a report of a domestic dispute. Police say Demetrius Williams of Poughkeepsie was threatening a woman and her children with a knife. CNY Central reports that police believed an infant was also barricaded inside the home with the suspect.

When the police arrived at the Utica home, Williams answered the door and then fled back into the home after confirming that there was a child inside. That's when the standoff with officers began. A hostage negotiator, as well as other agencies,  were called to the scene.

Williams was allegedly involved in a heated argument with the female and was swinging a knife at her and the children. During the argument, one of the children was cut on the leg.

After what was described as "intense negotiations," the man surrendered and released the child and infant. The child's leg was treated by paramedics on scene and was said to be in good condition.

The suspect was brought to the hospital for a psychological evaluation and charged with Menacing, Endangering the Welfare of a Child, Reckless Endangerment, Criminal Possession of a Weapon, Criminal Mischief and Unlawful Imprisonment.

 

More From WPDH-WPDA