Mental Health Suspect Tries Stealing Semi-Truck at BB Gunpoint

BB gun used by suspect to attempt to steal truck (KPD)

Early Monday morning a potential crisis was averted with a man who tried to steal a semi-truck in Kennewick.

WHAT DID THE SUSPECT TELL THE DRIVER OF BIG RIG?

Around 12:45 AM a 9-1-1 call came from a trucker, who said somebody was trying to break into his truck and pointing a gun at him. The suspect told the driver he wanted to steal his truck. The location of the incident was not released by Police.

Scene where suspect tried to steal truck (KPD)

Police arrived in a matter of minutes and found the suspect there. But when he was ordered to drop the weapon and freeze, he did the first part. He threw away the gun but fled on foot. He was quickly run down and apprehended.

THE GUN WASN'T REALLY A GUN?

Turns out the weapon was a very realistic-looking BB gun, the suspect was lucky the semi-driver didn't take defensive measures. A lot of long-haul drivers legally carry weapons for protection.

Police say the suspect, whose name was not released, is well known to Police due to a number of mental health issues. Kennewick Police released this statement which read in part:

"The suspect was booked into the Benton County Jail for Assault 1st degree, Robbery 1st degree, and on a warrant for his arrest.

The suspect had had numerous previous contacts with officers and they were aware of who he was. They were also aware of his mental health status. Local mental health resources were notified of the suspects booking into the jail so that mental health assistance could be provided."

This case is a prime example of why the Benton (and Franklin) County Commissioners passed that new sales tax, to fund the creation of a mental health treatment center in our area.

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Filed Under: mental health

Categories: crime, Health & Fitness, Weird News