ST. JOSEPH TOWNSHIP, Ind. -- Many properties on Washington Avenue were evacuated Sunday after a St. Joseph man threated to blow up his own home with natural gas.

The St. Joseph Township Police were called to the residence in the 2400 block of around 7:50 p.m. on Jan. 12 regarding a possible suicidal subject at the location. 

"Officers were made aware that the subject had indicated that he was filling his residence with natural gas, and that he intended to ignite the gas," Sgt. Michael Lanier said. "As a precautionary measure, several residents in the vicinity were advised to evacuate, as officers established a secure perimeter around the home."

St. Joseph Township officers were assisted by St. Joseph Department of Public Safety, Berrien County Tactical Response Unit, as well as Negotiators from Berrien County Sheriff's Department, and after roughly two hours, the 37-year-old male suspect exited the residence.

He was taken into protective custody by officers and transported to Corewell Health Lakeland Emergency Room for further treatment.

"A report is being submitted to the Berrien County Prosecutor's Office for review regarding possible criminal charges," Lanier said.