A bank robber who is believed to have a bomb strapped to his chest is holding at least one hostage in California.

Bakersfield police said they received a call just after 1pm about a bomb threat at the Chase Bank on 17th Street and Chester in Bakersfield, and soon learned that the unidentified male suspect barricaded himself inside with an unknown number of hostages inside, Sergeant Eric Celedon said.

It is believed the would-be robber has an explosive attached to his torso, Bakersfield Now reports. 

Roughly a dozen police vehicles were spotted responding to the scene Tuesday evening, as well as at least one tactical vehicle, according to KGET. 

Officers are now actively negotiating with the bank robber. 

‘What I can guarantee to the community right now is that every single resource is at this this site’s disposal – SWAT team, bomb squad, K9 team, gang unit, drone team,’ Celedon said.

‘Every single asset we have to bring this to the safest conclusion is out here right now, not just ’cause that’s what the community needs, but that’s what you guys deserve.’ 

A man believed to have a bomb strapped to his chest is holding at least one hostage at a Chase Bank in Bakersfield, California

Officers were trying to negotiate with the would-be robber Tuesday evening 

Evacuations were underway and streets in the nearby area were closed in the immediate area. City Hall and police headquarters were also placed on locked down.

City officials said the public will not be able to access the city properties at this time.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.