JOHNSTOWN, Pa. (WTAJ) — A Johnstown man is behind bars after police say he held two people hostage during a five-hour standoff on Jan. 25.
Keyshawn W. Cooks, 24, is accused of breaking into a residence at Oakhurst Homes in Johnstown and holding a gun to a woman’s head. An infant was also held hostage during the standoff; a third person was able to escape the residence and call police around noon, according to the charges filed.
A witness said they saw Cooks holding a gun to the woman’s head and barricading himself and the hostages inside the bedroom of the home. Cooks surrendered to police at around 5 p.m. He faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated assault and the kidnapping of a minor.
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Cooks has also been charged with animal cruelty after he allegedly shot and killed a pit bull on Jan. 13. He fired several shots and said the pit bull had been involved in a fight with his dogs, according to the charges filed. During this incident, police discovered he had an outstanding warrant out of Cumberland County for homicide by vehicle.
Due to past criminal history, Cooks is not allowed to possess a firearm, according to police.
“The well-orchestrated multi-agency response to this situation was a phenomenal showing by law enforcement, first responders, and other entities,” Cambria County District Attorney Greg Neugebauer said. “Thankfully, the incident completed without any injuries or property damage.”
He is currently in Cambria County Prison. His bail is set at 10% of $500,000 and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for Feb. 1.