WWPD responds to incident in Rancho Villa Mobile Home Park
By Dan Thesman on Friday, November 22nd, 2024 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
WALLA WALLA – (News release from Walla Walla Police Department) On November 22, 2024, just after 12:00 PM, the Walla Walla Police Department responded to a reported assault in the 1200 block of Jones Drive within the Rancho Villa Mobile Home Park. The victim reported a random and unprovoked attack, during which the suspect (unknown to the victim) assaulted the victim with a wooden cane and broke the victim’s vehicle window. After the attack, the suspect threatened to “put a bullet in the victim’s head.”
Officers quickly identified the suspect as 63-year-old Matthew S. Meeks. Upon arrival, officers made contact with Meeks at his residence. Despite efforts to de-escalate the situation, Meeks retreated into his home and refused to comply with the officers’ instructions. Patrol units from Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office and College Place Police Department responded to assist.
Meeks has recently made violent statements toward members of the community and law enforcement. Specifically threats involving the use of firearms. Because of the escalating and serious threats, the Walla Walla Regional SWAT Team was deployed to assist. Although no probable cause had been established from prior reports, safety bulletins regarding Meeks had been distributed to local law enforcement.
The SWAT Team deployed a noise flash distraction device (commonly referred to as a “flash bang”) as part of their de-escalation tactics. Officers spent approximately three hours attempting to hail Meeks out of his home. At approximately 3:15 PM, Meeks exited his residence and surrendered without further incident. No physical force was used in taking him into custody.
Meeks was transported to a local hospital for evaluation before being booked on Assault in the 4th Degree, Malicious Mischief in the 3rd Degree, and Felony Harassment (Threats to Kill).
The Walla Walla Police Department is actively investigating this incident.
The Walla Walla Regional SWAT Team is made up of officers and deputies from the Walla Walla Police Department, Walla Walla County Sheriff’s Office, and College Place Police Department.
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