Utah woman, 99, says she calmed man who held her hostage

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah (AP) — A 99-year-old Utah woman who was held hostage for several hours says she helped calm the suspect during a tense standoff with police.

KSTU-TV in Salt Lake City reports Unified Police arrested Freddy Alexander Velasquez following a standoff with SWAT officers in West Valley City where he held Doris Rucker Wasden at gunpoint.

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Police say the 18-year-old Velasquez broke into her home around midnight Saturday and pointed a gun at her grandchildren who escaped. But Wasden was unable to leave with her grandchildren.

Wasden says she talked to Velasquez for several hours before he released her and then surrendered.

Velasquez is facing a number of charges. It was not known if he has an attorney.

Wasden is celebrating her 100th birthday next week.

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Information from: KSTU-TV, http://www.fox13now.com