Western Washington University in Bellingham sent out an email alert late Monday to let students know an armed man was reported near campus.

Bellingham police assisted by university police cordoned off an area a few blocks from the campus where negotiators reportedly were talking with an armed, suicidal man in a vehicle.

University police Chief Randy Stegmeier said he believed that a man in his 50s had called 911 to make a suicide threat.

Stegmeier says the email alert was sent because the area is close to campus and near a restaurant and shopping center that students frequent.

Stegmeier said city police had surrounded the man's vehicle and negotiators were talking with him.

Bellingham police did not immediately return a call and email seeking comment.