A man reportedly claiming to have a bomb climbed the famous Ferris wheel at the Santa Monica pier in California on Monday afternoon according to police.

"The #SantaMonica Pier is closed for police activity. We have a subject who has climbed onto the Ferris Wheel. The subject was heard by witnesses saying he has a bomb," read a statement from the Santa Monica police.

"Our officers are currently evacuating Pacific Park and the Pier and our Crisis Negotiation Team is contacting the subject who appears to be in crisis," they added.

KTLA-TV reported that there were people stranded in the baskets of the Ferris wheel. Helicopter news video showed firefighters at the scene rescuing three baskets full of people, including children.

Some witnesses had posted videos of the man to social media. One photo appeared to show the man with a large, black backpack clinging to the pillars of the Ferris wheel.

Crisis negotiators were also reported to be on the scene.

This is a developing story and more information will be added as it can be confirmed.

Santa Monica Pier evacuated after man scales Ferris wheelwww.youtube.com

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