Hours-long standoff ends, domestic violence suspect not found in Visalia home

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Visalia Police are searching for a man wanted in connection to a domestic violence incident and escaped a home during an hours-long standoff.

Officials say 49-year-old Guido Ventresca assaulted his girlfriend on Sunday at a home near Walnut and Cottonwood. Tuesday, he contacted the department saying he was willing to turn himself in and officers could meet him at the home.

Ventresca refused to leave the home, prompting an hours-long standoff with police. Tuesday afternoon, authorities sent in a robot to conduct a search, but only Ventresca's phone was found inside the home.

Neighboring homes were evacuated and roadways were blocked off in response to the active scene.

"This is very interesting because we normally do not see this type of situation in our neighborhood, so it's bringing everyone out even though it's hotter than Hades out," said neighbor Carolann Kong.

Anyone with information on Ventresca's whereabouts are asked to contact the Visalia Police Department.

This is a developing story. Stay with Action News for updates.