Benicia Bridge Closed When Man Calls 911, Says He Has Bomb: CHP

BENICIA, CA — A man claimed to have a bomb on the Benicia Bridge Friday night which prompted a full closure of the bridge, according to the California Highway Patrol. The southbound lanes of Interstate Highway 680 at the Benicia Bridge were initially shut down at about 7:35 p.m. Friday after the possible jumper called 911 and told dispatchers he had a bomb and he was on the bridge, CHP officials said.

CHP Spokeswoman Erica Tatum said officers delayed getting close to the person for cautionary reasons. As they waited for negotiators to arrive, all lanes of the bridge were closed.

The man was detained by authorities as of 9:15 p.m. and a bomb squad was getting ready to see whether a bomb existed, CHP officials said.

The southbound lanes of I-680 at the bridge remained closed as of 10 p.m., CHP officials said.

Drivers were being encouraged to avoid the bridge and take other routes if possible.

In addition to CHP, law enforcement with the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office and Solano County Sheriff's Office responded to the incident Friday night.

"We take threats like this seriously, as public safety is our main concern," CHP officials said. "Please take alternate routes, expect severe delays, and do not approach the area. We appreciate your patience as we work to try and bring this situation to a safe conclusion."

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— Bay City News Service contributed to this report.