Multiple People Held Hostage by Man at Texas Synagogue

Authorities say they’re negotiating with a man who has taken multiple people hostage at a Texas synagogue.

According to CNN, the situation unfolded during Saturday services at the Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, located about 30 miles outside of Dallas. Officials say the incident was partially captured on a Facebook livestream, in which a man could be heard apologizing to the hostages and making several remarks about Islam. Sources say the synagogue began livestreaming its services in wake of the COVID-19 lockdowns. More than 8,000 people were reportedly watching the stream before it was pulled.

Though police have yet to determine a motive, the livestream audio suggests the man was calling for the release of Aafia Siddiqui, a convicted terrorist who is believed to be his sister.

In 2010, Siddiqui was convicted of trying to kill U.S. officers in Afghanistan. The Pakistani woman is now serving an 86-year prison sentence in a Texas facility. Siddiqui’s attorney, Marwa Elbially, told CNN her client “has absolutely no involvement with” the hostage situation.

“She does not want any violence perpetrated against any human being, especially in her name,” Elbially told the network. “It obviously has nothing to do with Dr. Siddiqui or her family.”

Authorities have not publicly identified any of the hostages, but believe a rabbi is among those being held. At around 6 p.m. ET, one of the hostages was released. Colleyville Police Department Sgt. Dara Nelson told CNN the man was unharmed: “FBI Crisis Negotiators continue contact with the subject,” Nelson said. 

As of press time, no injuries or shots have been reported, and investigators are still unclear whether the suspect is armed.

“We are currently conducting SWAT operations around the 6100 block of Pleasant Run Rd,” the Colleyville Police Department told CNN. “All residents in the immediate area are being evacuated. Please avoid the area. We ask that you continue to avoid the area. We will continue to provide updates via social media.”

A number of political figures have responded to the situation, including Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, and White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki.

The FBI is also on the scene, assisting with the negotiations. Stay tuned for further developments.