THURSTON COUNTY, WA — A school resource officer was injured after an unprovoked attack by a convicted felon during a DUI-related crash investigation, according to a statement released by Sheriff Sanders.
The incident occurred after the deputy came upon a head-on collision and attempted to assist. One of the drivers, described as a 6’2″, 210-pound male and a convicted felon, allegedly became belligerent and non-compliant. The man, believed to be heavily intoxicated, reportedly ignored commands and squared off with the deputy as she held him at taser point.
When the suspect returned to his vehicle and began reaching around inside, the deputy transitioned to drawing her firearm. The suspect then charged at her, prompting her to return to taser deployment. After charging toward the injured victim’s vehicle, the deputy placed herself between the suspect and the victim and discharged the taser, which failed to subdue him.
A physical fight ensued on the ground, during which the suspect allegedly attempted to take the deputy’s firearm from her holster. She continued to struggle with him for approximately two minutes until an off-duty corrections officer with a concealed pistol license intervened, striking the suspect in the face multiple times with his firearm. A Nisqually Tribal Police officer also arrived and worked to keep the suspect away from the deputy’s weapon.
Another deputy deployed a second taser, which ultimately subdued the suspect.
The deputy sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment. The suspect and the vehicle crash victim were also transported to a hospital for evaluation.
Once medically cleared, the suspect will be booked on multiple charges, including driving under the influence and felony assault on a peace officer.
