Long Beach police safely end late night standoff on East Wardlow Road after hour long negotiation

Long Beach, California – Long Beach police say a late-night call involving a woman in crisis ended without injuries after officers relied on negotiation and mental health resources to resolve the situation safely.

According to the Long Beach Police Department, officers were dispatched to the 700 block of East Wardlow Road at about 10:35 p.m. after reports of what police described as a “no-hit shooting.” Authorities said an adult woman was barricaded inside a vehicle, was armed, and was experiencing suicidal ideations, prompting an immediate response focused on de-escalation.

Crisis response and de-escalation efforts

Police said the scene quickly shifted into a crisis response. Specialized resources were requested, including the department’s Mental Evaluation Team, a trained hostage negotiator, and K-9 units. Officers worked to keep the area secure while focusing on calming communication and reducing risk.

The department said the standoff lasted for approximately one hour. Throughout that time, officers maintained contact with the woman and continued efforts to persuade her to surrender safely. Ultimately, police said the woman gave herself up without violence, bringing the situation to a close. No officers, bystanders, or the woman were injured during the incident.

After the surrender, the Long Beach Fire Department evaluated the woman at the scene. She was then transported to a local hospital for further assessment, according to police. The incident remains under investigation, and no additional details were released.

Police officials said the outcome reflects a broader shift in how the city responds to mental health emergencies. In recent years, Long Beach has placed increased emphasis on pairing law enforcement with mental health professionals, especially in situations where emotional distress plays a central role.

Officials noted that incidents like this one highlight how negotiation, patience, and specialized training can help prevent violence and protect lives. Police said the coordinated response shows a continued commitment to resolving high-risk situations without force whenever possible, particularly when mental health concerns are involved.

Authorities did not release the woman’s identity and said more information may be shared once the investigation is complete.