SWAT Standoff Across from Kroger, Next to Childcare Center

Update 4:00pm - Buford Drive at Russell Road is reopened to traffic in both directions.

Gwinnett County Police were called to a SWAT standoff at the at the intersection of Buford Drive and Russell Road at about 10am.

An armed man was reportedly in a vehicle at the gas station. He allegedly was beating a female in his car and eventually let her go after police intervention. The suspect threatened police and is claiming there are explosives in the car. 

Rose Haulk, Fuel Manager at the Kroger gas station across the road was there in her booth when the activity began.

"All I saw was all these cop cars come flying from both directions," said Haulk.

SWAT was able to take the man into custody without incident. The Hazardous Device Unit is on the scene checking the car for explosives.

The scene is right next door to the Sheltering Arms Early Education and Family Center. Cpl. Edwin Ritter of the GCPD said all the children and faculty in the facility are still inside but have been moved to the far side of the building by the staff as a safety precaution.

The intersection at Buford Drive and Russell Road is completely blocked off to traffic and pedestrians. Ritter said there are no detours in place and drivers are asked to avoid the area and find alternate routes.

Watch Lawrenceville Patch's interview with Cpl. Ritter for more information.