A man from Beaver County faces serious allegations of employing his 2-year-old daughter as a “human shield” and keeping her captive for several hours on Tuesday.
Authorities were alerted to a situation on 6th Street in Ambridge on Tuesday at approximately 2:30 p.m., involving a man who had barricaded himself inside a residence with a child.
Authorities reported that the situation began as a domestic violence case on Monday, but the individual involved, Manuel Turcios-Perez, managed to escape. Authorities located him in Ambridge on Tuesday, but as stated in the criminal complaint, he took his 2-year-old daughter and used her as a “shield,” leading officers to request additional support.
Authorities reported that they attempted to reach an agreement with him for several hours prior to the deployment of SWAT teams. Authorities reported that Turcios-Perez informed officers of his intent to self-harm prior to his surrender, adding that “once night fell, the situation would escalate for the police.”
Ultimately, officials reported that they chose to breach the residence, discovering Turcios-Perez employing the child as a “human shield.” Authorities reported that officers subdued Turcios-Perez, who attempted to seize a detective’s firearm. Authorities reported that they struck him in the head several times before bringing him to the ground and securing him with handcuffs.
In the midst of the altercation, the girl was removed from the residence and assessed by medical personnel before being reunited with her mother.
“Anytime there are no injuries when you have SWAT make entry, no injuries is a peaceful resolution,” Ambridge Police Chief John DeLuca said.
Authorities reported that the 12-year-old daughter of the suspect exited the bus at the residence amid the situation, but law enforcement ensured her safety.
Turcios-Perez is confronting several allegations, such as obstructing law enforcement and jeopardizing a child’s safety.