Police in Ravenna are investigating what was described as an active shooter situation outside the VA Outpatient Clinic on Chestnut Street.

According to a statement from the Veteran’s Administration,  a  VA employee was walking into work shortly after 8 a.m.noticed a man outside kneeling on the ground. 

Witnesses say the man, who was carrying a sawed-off shotgun, was also kissing the flag pole in front of the clinic.

The employee notified the clinic’s security officer who went out to talk with the man.  At that time, the man fired one shot into the air near outside the clinic.

 The security guard ran back into the building, secured the building, called local authorities and enacted the VA’s emergency response plan, which included having employees shelter inside.

A SWAT negotiator was able to de-escalate the situation, according to police. The suspect did not threaten officers.

The Ravenna Police Department and VA Police were able to get the man to surrender just before 10 a.m. with no injuries to himself or others. 

Video supplied to 21 News shows the man, all dressed in black, being led away in handcuffs.

James Jordan, age 64, of Ravenna was taken to a local hospital for treatment. Police say he was despondent over the recent death in the family.

The VA said that the Ravenna facility will remain closed for the rest of Wednesday.

Traffic on North Chestnut Street was rerouted, and Ravenna High School was placed on lockdown.

21 News is working to find out if the suspect will be charged.