Police negotiators were tonight trying to save an elderly woman who was inside a property with a knife-wielding man.
Officers were called to Perry Hill Road in Sandwell, West Midlands, this morning after concerns for the woman's welfare were raised.
The incident was believed to be domestic-related.
Chief Superintendent Phil Kay, of West Midlands Police, who is managing the incident, said: "Officers received an emergency call this morning regarding concerns for the welfare of a woman aged in her 80s, who lives at an address in Oldbury.
"Police made further inquiries which confirmed that a man aged in his 40s was also inside the property in Perry Hill Road and was armed with a knife. At this stage the incident is believed to be domestic-related.
"Specialist officers including force negotiators remain at the scene this evening as they continue to try and bring the situation to a peaceful and safe resolution."