A potentially deadly situation ended peacefully yesterday evening after Parsons Police Officers successfully negotiated the surrender of an armed individual who had barricaded himself inside a local sober living facility.
According to the Parsons Police Department, on Wednesday, October 14th around 5:30 p.m., Parsons Police Officers responded a sober living and recovery home located at 2601 Kimball Avenue regarding a possible criminal trespassing complaint.
Upon arrival, officers were met by residents of the facility who directed them to a bedroom occupied by 59-year-old Laughn Seltmann of Parsons. Officers learned that Seltmann had reportedly violated the facility's house rules and had been asked to leave the residence.
While officers attempted to resolve the situation, Seltmann reportedly made statements indicating that he would not leave. Moments later, Seltmann emerged with a weapon, pointed it toward his own head, and barricaded himself inside the bedroom. He later stated that he would "only leave in a body bag".
Responding officers and other occupants of the residence took cover then established a secure perimeter. Officers evacuated all civilians from harm's way and began negotiations in an effort to bring the situation to a peaceful conclusion.
Parsons Police Detectives worked to obtain the necessary search warrants, while the Kansas Highway Patrol's High-Risk Warrant Team was contacted and responded to assist.
By 9 p.m., after more than three hours of negotiations and police response, Seltmann voluntarily surrendered and exited the bedroom. He was taken into custody without further incident. No injuries were reported.
Seltmann was arrested on suspicion of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, criminal trespass and interference with law enforcement.
The case will be forwarded to the Labette County Attorney's Office for review and formal criminal charges.
