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West Penn Power Building Evacuated Due To Threat

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JEANNETTE, Pa. (KDKA) – The West Penn Power building was evacuated on Friday morning after a local man allegedly made "threats against the building, employees and students," state police in Greensburg said.

west penn power training center
(Photo Credit: KDKA Photojournalist Dennis Lane)

Jacob William Ackerman, 20, of Belle Vernon sent a cell phone video in which he stated, "We are going in, boys," and "I got a vest" several times, while recording a black assault rifle, ammunition and a heavy ballistics vest.

Police arrested Ackerman, who admitted to sending the video, and took him to the Westmoreland County Jail on $100,000 bond. The weapon, ammo and vest were confiscated, as well.

Jacob Ackerman
Photo Credit: Westmoreland County Prison

"West Penn Power management acted quickly and decisively to protect our employees and line worker students immediately after learning of the threat," the company said in a statement. "We are grateful for the assistance from the Pennsylvania State Police to safely resolve the situation."

The video was sent to students in a program training for potential jobs with West Penn Power after Ackerman was not hired by the company.

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