Cook Forest suspect surrenders

The standoff and shootout at Cook Forest has ended with the suspect surrendering.

Pennsylvania state police had McBeth’s Cabins surrounded for nearly 24 hours during which several shots and “flash bangs” were fired.

State park wardens and state police were called to the scene at about 9:30 a.m. Saturday to reports of a man shooting randomly from an apartment above the store at McBeth’s.

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Ranger Stephen Mazik quickly secured the roadway so no passersby would be in danger.

Chief Ranger John McAvoy said that after the scene was secured there was no danger to the public.

During the day, loud bangs could be heard across the river valley followed by gunfire.

Routes into and out of the state park were blocked by fire police. People who expected their first weekend camping or hiking in the park were turned away.

State police trooper Christopher Smith said emergency response officers brought in a number of tactical weapons and equipment.

Some shots were fired at about 2:30 p.m. and then a long round of shots were fired at about 4:30 p.m.

Another fire fight broke out at about 7:15 p.m. followed by six loud bangs minutes later.