At approximately 0930 local time (0730 UTC) on 21 July 2020, an armed man seized a passenger bus with 20 people aboard near Teatralnaya Square in the northwestern town of Lutsk, located approximately 150 km (95 mi) northeast of the city of Lviv. Authorities stated that the man is believed to be in possession of explosive devices; officials at the scene reportedly defused a grenade thrown by the assailant. Gunshots were also heard in the area and the bus appeared damaged. Police officers have cordoned off the city center and urge individuals to avoid the area. A large number of law enforcement officials are at the site and hostage negotiators have engaged the assailant. The situation is ongoing and additional information has yet to emerge.