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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Sirens & Gavels

Fugitive cop shooting suspect arrested

A man who officials say escaped capture last month after trying to fire a gun at a Spokane police officer has been arrested in Addy, Wash. .

Chase J. Earl-West, 22, who was wanted on a warrant for violating drug court conditions imposed for a car theft charge when he allegedly tried to shot at the officer Dec. 12, was taken into custody about 3 p.m. by the Spokane Police Patrol Anti-Crime Team, with the help of the U.S. Marshal's Fugitive Task Force, a Border Patrol helicopter and the Stevens County Sheriff's Office.

A no-bail warrant was issued Dec. 8 after Earl-West didn’t show up for a court hearing, according to court records.

Officers were looking for him at the Randolph Arms Apartments near Spokane Falls Community College late Dec. 12 when he allegedly pointed a gun at an officer and pulled the trigger, but it malfunctioned and did not fire, police say. A SWAT team standoff ensued and 30 surrounding apartments units were evacuated.

Police believe Earl-West escaped before a perimeter was set up and the nine-hour standoff began.

Crime Stoppers was offering a reward for tips that led to his capture.



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