Daily World

A 37-year-old, machete-wielding Humptulips man was arrested Wednesday after breaking into a residence and ultimately threatening to kill Grays Harbor County deputies, the Sheriff’s Office said.

Undersheriff Brad Johansson said the suspect was seen entering a vacant residence on Prairie Gardens Road in Humptulips. When deputies arrived they found the man armed with a machete, threatening to kill the deputies and refusing to leave the residence.

“The homeowner was contacted and he advised the male did not have permission to be in the residence,” said Johansson. “The male refused to come out of the residence and appeared to be under the influence of drugs or have mental health issues.”

Deputies requested additional units and were assisted by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife wardens, Grays Harbor Drug Task Force detectives, and Aberdeen and Montesano Police Department Crisis Response Unit members. Negotiators attempted to get the suspect to leave the residence and surrender.

“The suspect started to damage the house with the machete,” said Johansson. “Negotiators utilized friends and family members to talk with the suspect and they eventually convinced the male to leave the residence unarmed.”

The suspect was booked into the Grays Harbor County jail for burglary.

“We are thankful the incident was ended with the suspect agreeing to surrender peacefully,” said Johansson.