More than three weeks after an Oregon militia group took over a wildlife refuge building, it appears the standoff is nearing its end.
According to multiple media reports, two people have been shot. Ammon Bundy, the leader of the militia, and as many as six others have been taken into custody. Pete Santilli was the first to report the news via his streaming YouTube channel, and he also reported, via the Oregonian, that the FBI has told the rest of the militia group that they are free to go but that they must leave immediately.
KATU is reporting that the group was on its way to a meeting with community members in John Day, Oregon, when there was some sort of altercation, leading to the closing of Highway 395. Officials told the TV station there are injuries in the area.
According to Santilli, “The media was alerted to a possible shooting with casualties—upon approaching the road where the shooting was said to occur, we found a blockade with officers in tactical gear and AR 15’s on guard. The hospital is also on lockdown.”
Shots reportedly were first fired when the FBI and the Oregon State police halted the militia group during a traffic stop.
Update 9:12pm CT, Jan. 26: The FBI has confirmed that one Oregon militia member was killed during the standoff, but has yet to release his name. According to officials, six arrests were made during the standoff.
Screengrab via Bundy Ranch/Facebook