Man fleeing welfare check wades into the river before surrendering to police

EAST WENATCHEE — A 41-year-old man who appeared to be hallucinating fled from officers during a welfare check Friday afternoon and went into the Columbia River before surrendering, according to the East Wenatchee Police Department.

Police were dispatched to the Motor Inn on 13th Street NE around 2:10 p.m. on Dec. 5 after the man’s mother reported he was digging a hole in the wall and believed people were chasing him. She also told officers her son is known to use drugs and that she was concerned for other tenants.

Before officers arrived, they learned the man had a confirmed warrant out of Stevens County. When police contacted him, he immediately ran from the scene, crossing Sunset Highway and forcing several vehicles to stop abruptly. He continued toward the Apple Capital Loop Trail and then went into the Columbia River.

East Wenatchee Police requested assistance from Wenatchee Valley Fire Department, which responded with a boat. Officers spent about 20 minutes negotiating with the man in the water before he surrendered and was helped back to shore. He was transported to Central Washington Hospital for evaluation.

Stevens County initially confirmed the arrest warrant but later advised it could not be enforced due to transport issues. The man was cited for obstructing and remained at the hospital.

Andrew Simpson: 509-433-7626 or andrew@ward.media