SWAT team activated after East Wenatchee arrest turns into deadly threat

EAST WENATCHEE — On July 24, at approximately 8:30 p.m., East Wenatchee Police responded to a domestic disturbance in which an adult male was threatening family members with a knife.

Upon their arrival, officers encountered family members who reported that the suspect had grown increasingly agitated, assaulted them with human waste, and menaced them with a knife. Based on victim statements and evidence, officers determined they had probable cause to arrest the suspect for Assault in the 3rd Degree (Domestic Violence) and Felony Harassment (Threats to Kill).

The suspect, who officers already knew from contact during recent mental health-related incidents, barricaded himself in the home. At that point, officers from East Wenatchee PD were joined by deputies from the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, officers from the Wenatchee Police Department, troopers from the Washington State Patrol, and later, the East Cascades SWAT Team.

Responders attempted to de-escalate the situation and encourage a peaceful surrender for about two hours. Catholic Charities Behavioral Health personnel tried to communicate with the male suspect via loudspeaker but were unsuccessful.

As those attempts continued, the suspect was seen inside the home holding a compound bow and a knife, and eventually pointing the bow — with an arrow at the ready — toward law enforcement positioned outside.

Because of the threat level and the suspect’s refusal to cooperate, SWAT was activated and took control of the operation. The suspect was taken into custody without injury to officers or the subject.

He was transported to the hospital for medical clearance before being booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center (CCRJC) on charges of Assault in the 3rd Degree (Domestic Violence) and two counts of Felony Harassment — Threats to Kill (Domestic Violence)

More charges, including Assault in the 1st Degree for pointing a deadly weapon at officers, and Resisting Arrest, are being forwarded to the Douglas County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

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