Aberdeen Police Department Responds to Armed Domestic Violence Incident in Cosmopolis

Police say the suspect, who also had multiple warrants, hid in the attic until officers used chemical agents to force him out.

On Tuesday, August 4, at approximately 6:25 p.m., officers with the Aberdeen Police Department were dispatched to a residence in the 1400 block of 3rd Street in Cosmopolis following a report of a disorderly subject reportedly armed with a crowbar.

Several Aberdeen officers responded to the scene, along with officers who were nearby attending a National Night Out event in Cosmopolis. Upon arrival, officers contacted the female victim at the residence and began their investigation.

Officers developed probable cause to arrest a 32-year-old male suspect on multiple felony and misdemeanor charges. The suspect, who had been staying at the residence and was previously in a relationship with the victim, allegedly threatened the victim with a crowbar and prevented her from leaving the residence following an argument.

Officers established a perimeter around the home and made repeated attempts to have the suspect exit the residence voluntarily. The suspect refused to comply, and officers subsequently obtained a search warrant for the residence.

Following the issuance of the warrant, officers deployed a drone inside the residence to conduct a preliminary search. The suspect was not located during the initial search. Officers then entered the residence and discovered access to the attic area, which appeared to have been disturbed.

A drone was deployed into the attic and identified a crawl space that could not be fully searched remotely. Officers entered the attic and located the suspect hiding inside the crawl space.

Despite repeated verbal commands, the suspect refused to show his hands and remained non-compliant. Officers observed the crowbar within the suspect’s immediate reach. After multiple warnings, officers deployed OC spray, which was ineffective. Officers then deployed an FN 303 less-lethal PAVA/OC round, striking the suspect in the lower back.

The suspect then reluctantly complied with officers’ commands but continued to resist as officers removed him from the attic and placed him into custody.

The suspect was transported to the Aberdeen Jail, where he was booked on charges of Felony Harassment – Domestic Violence, Unlawful Imprisonment, Obstructing a Law Enforcement Officer, and Resisting Arrest.

The Aberdeen Police Department would like to thank the Grays Harbor County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Aberdeen Fire Department for their assistance during this incident.

Because this incident required a significant law enforcement response and lasted several hours, many Aberdeen officers were unable to attend National Night Out events as planned. We value the opportunity to participate in these annual community gatherings and appreciate the understanding of our residents. We look forward to continuing to build and strengthen our relationships with the community through future events.