JACKSONVILLE, N.C. (WITN) – A man is dead after shooting at police early Wednesday morning, however, multiple people held captive are safe, according to the Jacksonville Police Department.

Jacksonville police say officers were called to a home at 701 New River Drive at 1:36 a.m. for shots fired and a domestic disturbance report.

Officers say an armed man barricaded himself in the house along with six other people. 

The police department’s tactical team and negotiators were called to the situation, and the six people were able to escape from the home through a side window.

While helping the people out of the window, officials say the armed man left the back of the home and opened fire.   Officials say officers returned fire, hitting and killing the suspect at the scene.

A statement from Police Chief Michael Yaniero says in part, “This is a tragedy for all involved.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and officers involved.  We understand and appreciate the public’s concern whenever an officer is faced with the difficult split-second decision to defend their self and others against an armed subject.”

This is an active and ongoing investigation. It is being turned over to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation.