Urbana, IL – A 23-year-old woman is safe after being inside an Urbana apartment during a seven-hour standoff Tuesday involving a robbery suspect and a large SWAT response.
According to the Urbana Police Department, officers arrived at a third-floor apartment in the 200 block of South Lynn Street to serve a warrant for aggravated robbery on 26-year-old Jaliqwon Robertson. Authorities say Robertson fled into the apartment occupied by the woman and allegedly threatened violence if officers entered.
Due to the seriousness of the situation and Robertson’s prior violent history, officers withdrew and activated the METRO SWAT team. Additional support from the Champaign SWAT team was requested due to the extended duration and extreme heat conditions.
Police evacuated nearby apartments while negotiators treated the incident as an armed barricade with a potential hostage. After seven hours, Robertson peacefully surrendered, and the woman exited the apartment unharmed.
A search of the unit led to the recovery of parts of a dismantled firearm and firearm accessories. Robertson was taken into custody on the outstanding robbery warrant and may face additional charges as the investigation continues.
Urbana Police expressed appreciation for assistance from the Champaign Police Department, METRO SWAT, METCAD-911, and other support agencies.
Authorities remind the public that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Anyone with information related to the case is asked to contact Urbana Police or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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