The scene earlier today Gary McCullough AP / Press Association Images Gary McCullough AP / Press Association Images / Press Association Images

A SWAT TEAM has rescued 11 people held hostage at a credit union in Jacksonville, Florida.

A gunman took the people hostage earlier today.

Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams said that after the suspect put his gun to the back of the head of one hostage, SWAT team members had resolved to storm the premises at the first opportunity.

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Williams said that moment came when two people who had been hiding inside the bank unbeknown to the suspect made a run for it, distracting the gunman.

SWAT team members then rushed into the Community First Credit Union and put themselves between the suspect and hostages, according to the sheriff.

The suspect is now in custody.

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