Dozens of police and emergency services personnel stood guard outside the Nomad Motel in Cranbrook on Wednesday, October 30.

According to an RCMP statement, police responded to a call about a distraught male holed up in a motel room.

“Police attended to assist, when the male made comments that caused them concern as it affected public safety.

“Police set up a perimeter, moved persons out of the area and are currently attempting to make contact with the male inside,” said Cpl. Chris Newel in a statement released about 4 p.m.

“It is unknown if he has any weapons but police are taking precautions to ensure the safety of those in the area.”

The highway is closed to traffic in both directions from Victoria Avenue to 6th Street North.

At about 2 p.m., a police emergency response team in camouflage uniforms with semi-automatic weapons arrived on the scene.

Residents are asked to stay away from the area.