Police officers and deputies responded to the scene and established a perimeter after receiving the call at approximately 12:36 p.m.

Police and deputies tried to negotiate with the suspect to get him to exit the bank, but their attempts were not successful. Highlands County Sheriff's Office SWAT team responded and entered the bank to continue negotiations. 

Highlands County officials confirm several people have been transported from the scene to the hospital. The injuries are unknown at this time. The Sebring Police Department says they are not sure of a motive and the investigation is active at this time.

The front doors of the bank appear to be smashed in and ripped off the hinges.

Deputies say co-workers and family members of anyone who was at the SunTrust branch during the incident should go to Inn on the Lakes. Deputies stressed that those who come to Inn on the Lakes should be "ONLY co-workers and family members."

US Highway 27 is now open after being shut down in both directions from Hammock Road to Lakeview Drive for several hours.

There is no threat to the schools, according to officials. The School Board of Highlands County says all controlled campuses have been lifted and the buses may be delayed as there is significant traffic congestion in the area due to the road closure.   

"The FBI is in coordination with local law enforcement agencies regarding a shooting at a Sun Trust Bank branch in Sebring, Florida. No further information is available at this time," the FBI said in a statement.

In another statement, SunTrust said:

We are working closely with officials and seeking to take care of everyone affected at our Sebring, Florida branch. We will provide more information as soon as we can.

Check here for the latest updates from WFTS in Tampa, Florida.