PASCO, Wash. – UPDATE: 3:00 p.m.
PASCO, Wash. – Pasco Police released details into the arrest of a man who holed himself inside an upper floor apartment at Catholic Charities March 17.
According to Police Lieutenant Thomas Groom, officers tried to make contact with the suspect who had armed himself with a knife and threatened officers, claiming he had propane tanks ready to explode.
Due to the severity of the threats, the Tri-City Regional SWAT team was called to assist. Nearby apartments were evacuated for safety. Negotiations were attempted but proved unsuccessful, said Lt. Groom.
Ultimately, SWAT members used less-lethal force to subdue and arrest the suspect at approximately 6:38 p.m. Officers discovered the suspect had self-inflicted stab wounds on his legs. He was treated by Pasco Fire personnel and transported to a local hospital for further medical attention.
Initial claims by the suspect that he doused himself with gasoline were false, but propane canisters were found at the scene, Lt. Groom added.
The suspect caused an estimated $30,000 in property damage. He has been booked into Franklin County Corrections Center on charges of burglary, felony harassment, and malicious mischief.
ORIGINAL: March 17
Pasco Police remain inside Catholic Charities where officers are trying to secure a man accused of making threats.
The nature of the threats has not been released, but a police spokesperson says a small area surrounding the suspect at the top of the building was evacuated and a SWAT unit from Richland was called as a precaution.
An arrest of another man took place while officers were on scene. The police spokesperson said the suspect attempted to assault officers.
Police say there’s no threat to the public.
We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available to us.
ORIGINAL: March 17
Pasco Police officers, sheriff’s deputies along with a SWAT vehicle are currently at Catholic Charities in Pasco for an unspecified situation.
Despite the ongoing response in the 300 Block of South 20th, there are no road closures in the area, and people have been seen entering and exiting the building.
Details regarding the nature of the situation or when it began remain unclear at this time. We will provide updates as they become available to us.
