The gunman is still active inside Sky Motors on Pacific Avenue S.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department said: “Multiple shots fired at deputies.
“SWAT team on scene.
“Stand by for media staging and updates.
“Scene is hot and active.
“Detective Troyer en route.”
Sheriff’s spokesman Ed Troyer said all law enforcement officers are currently uninjured.
He claimed it was a robbery “went sideways” and deputies attended the scene quickly so that all employees got out of the dealership.
One remained stuck inside and the “well-armed” suspect held him hostage.
Mr Troyer said law enforcement officers were able to safely rescue the hostage.
All lanes are currently closed between 132nd and 138th and Pacific Avenue and airspace over the area is also being shut down.
The public has been urged to stay away from the area.
Officers remain on the scene and additional rescources are arriving at the location.
The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department has just tweeted the “suspect is continuing to fire numerous rounds”.
His social media message read: “Suspect is believed to be in possession of multiple firearms including long guns.
“Multiple agencies on scene & attempting to make contact with suspect for negotiations.
“All lanes of Pacific Ave. remain shut down.”
Another update from the Sheriff’s Department says the “scene is directly across Pacific Ave. from Saars Marketplace”.
All grocery employees and customers are currently in lockdown inside the store until they can be escorted safely out of the store
More to follow…