Police Standoff Halts Landings at San Diego Airport

A standoff between San Diego police and a gunman who was firing rounds at officers Wednesday forced a halt to landings at San Diego International Airport, authorities said.

"Active gun fire. Residents near 2445 Brant St. Little Italy. Stay away from all windows until further notice and Shelter in place," San Diego police tweeted.

Police shut down streets in the area and were evacuating some neighbors. The standoff took place near San Diego International Airport, and landings were not being allowed while the standoff unfolded, the airport said.

Lt. Scott Wahl said police were called to the scene for a domestic disturbance shortly after 9 a.m. PT. The man, in an upper-floor apartment, began firing at officers and came within inches of hitting them, he said.

"We believe he is armed with a very high-powered rifle," Wahl said, warning neighbors that " if they come out on the street or yard, it is very possible they could be struck."

Police scanner chatter indicated officers had brought snipers into the area and that the gunman was firing shots in the general direction of officers. The chatter indicated the man expressed a willingness to surrender, but was afraid he would be shot. The chatter indicated the man was still firing, but officers later said the shot apparently came from a handgun when threw it out a window.

Later the suspect, who police said had been identified, said he was concerned that a police dog might attack him, officers said.

As the standoff dragged on, detailed rules of engagement were discussed over the scanner.

Police stressed that media outlets should not reveal the location of SWAT teams and snipers.

"For the safety of the officers & all involved, please do not televise @SanDiegoPD officer positions. Thank you." the police department tweeted.

At least two local schools were locked down as a precaution, police said.