'Deliberate, patient approach' resolved Tarentum SWAT incident peacefully, police chief says

A roughly three-hour SWAT standoff in Tarentum on Thursday was resolved peacefully because of a “deliberate, patient approach that prioritized time, communication and containment,” said William Vakulick, the borough’s police chief.

“We’re grateful that yesterday’s incident on East Eighth Avenue was resolved without injury to the individual involved, the public or any officers,” Vakulick said. “This outcome was the result of strong coordination, measured decision-making and the professionalism of all agencies on scene.”

Tarentum police responded to the 600 block of East Eighth Avenue at about 2:20 p.m. Thursday for reports of gunshots. Authorities say Matthew Todd Jones, 28, of Tarentum, is accused of firing a gun in the backyard following an argument with a roommate.

Officers initially found Jones on the back porch, but he went inside the home, police wrote in charging papers against Jones. Vakulick talked with Jones on the phone to negotiate with him, but Jones hung up, the criminal complaint said.

“Tarentum officers responded immediately and followed protocol by attempting communication and securing the area,” Vakulick said. “When the individual remained unresponsive, we requested assistance from Allegheny County SWAT, whose specialized training in high-risk situations was instrumental.”

Jones was taken into custody just after 5:30 p.m. He is charged with obstruction, disorderly conduct and reckless endangerment. A preliminary hearing for Jones is scheduled Aug. 13 before District Judge Carolyn S. Bengel.

“Public safety was maintained throughout, with officers securing the perimeter, limiting access and ensuring residents were kept at a safe distance,” Vakulick said.

The Allegheny County SWAT team is available to assist all local law enforcement across the county as needed, said its spokesman, Jim Madalinsky. He said the team works with local police during incidents to set up perimeters and make sure nearby residents are safe.

Over the years, responses to SWAT situations have evolved, Vakulick said, “with a greater focus on deescalation, mental health awareness and interagency collaboration.”

“While Tarentum does not operate its own SWAT team, our officers receive ongoing training in crisis response and containment, and we maintain strong partnerships with regional units for scenarios that require tactical intervention,” he said.

Madalinsky said recent, significant changes to SWAT responses include advances in technology, such as deploying drones to safely assess situations. The SWAT team also uses negotiators to try to deescalate incidents, he said, and officers “make every attempt to deploy less lethal tactics and weapons to protect everyone involved.”

“The SWAT team trains regularly to prepare for any possible scenario in order to ensure the safety of the individuals involved and the community,” he said.

Vakulick thanked the community for their support during and after the situation and Harrison and Allegheny County police for their assistance.