A large police presence and an ongoing incident prompted the shutdown of Route 209 through the Borough of New Philadelphia late Monday morning.
According to information relayed over fire dispatch, the roadway was closed shortly after 10:00 a.m. at the request of the Pennsylvania State Police for an incident reported in the area of 83 Valley Street.
Fire police were called to assist with traffic control as authorities worked to secure the area. Sources indicate that multiple law enforcement agencies from across Schuylkill County were dispatched to the location as the situation unfolded.
Unconfirmed reports from sources at the scene indicate that an individual may have been firing shots toward Pennsylvania State Police. Authorities have not yet confirmed those reports.
As of approximately 11:00 a.m., the closure of Route 209 had expanded to encompass the entire Borough of New Philadelphia, with the roadway shut down between Port Carbon and Middleport.
Numerous Pennsylvania State Police units remain on scene as the situation continues to develop.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes while emergency crews remain active.
This is a developing story, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.