TULSA -- “We truly don’t know in this day and age when an individual indicates that they have the potential to do damage, we have to take all precautions,” said Tulsa Police Public Information Officer Leland Ashley.”
The Tulsa Air National Guard is familiar with dangerous situations. Today was no different when the base went into lockdown after 29 year-old Heather Thomas made bomb threats while driving on the base.
“We train all the time for stuff like this and we have the upmost confidence in Tulsa PD that they could handle that and that’s why they were called,” said National Guard Public Affairs Officer Jennifer Proctor.
“She drove several times around the flag pole in front of the facilities she indicated she had an explosive device and would more than likely use it,” said Tulsa Police Public Information Officer Leland Ashley.
Officers said they believe Thomas suffers from a mental illness. Police began negotiating with Thomas over the phone. After a couple of hours, the woman surrendered.
“We knew we were making headway with her then subsequently she came outside the vehicle and officers were able to move up safely and to take her into custody,” said Officer Ashley.
Police said patience and good communication is how they were able to end the stand off peacefully.
“We were able to communicate with her, she stayed on the phone with us and listened to negotiators and decided to listen to negotiators, so we’re very grateful for that,” said Officer Ashley.
RELATED: What is the Air National Guard Base in Tulsa?
According to the Tulsa International Airport, the threat didn't impact operations. The base is home to the 138th Fighter Wing of the Oklahoma National Guard.
Below is the original statement from Tulsa Police.
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