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Man accused of threatening woman with handgun in downtown Wilkes-Barre

WILKES-BARRE, PA – A 23-year-old man was arrested after police say he followed a woman into a business on Hazle Street and displayed a handgun while making threats, ending a tense encounter that prompted a city arrest.

Officers responded Wednesday after a 20-year-old woman reported being followed while walking on Hazle Street. The woman entered a nearby business to seek help, and the suspect allegedly followed her inside and continued to threaten her while showing a handgun. Responding patrol units located the suspect on Blackman Street and took him into custody without further incident.

The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Isaiah Valencia of Wilkes-Barre, was transported to City Headquarters for processing and arraignment. Police did not release additional details about the weapon or whether any charges beyond terroristic threats will be filed as the investigation continues.

Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the Wilkes-Barre Police Department.

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Key Points

Suspect allegedly followed a 20-year-old woman into a business on Hazle Street and displayed a handgun while making threats
Suspect identified as 23-year-old Isaiah Valencia was arrested on Blackman Street and taken to City Headquarters for processing
Investigation ongoing and police request anyone with information to contact the department

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

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Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

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