Update: Law Enforcement Activity In Calaveras County Ended With Gun Fire
Update at 6:50 p.m.: Calaveras County Sheriff’s officials report that the incident involving a West Point man barricaded in his home has ended with the suspect being shot. He is identified as 40-year-old Michael Powell.
The sheriff’s official detailed that around 5 p.m., communication with Powell “continued to be unproductive, and chemical agents were introduced into the residence.” They recounted, “The suspect exited the residence and fired a weapon at deputies one or more times, which caused deputies to return fire to protect themselves. The suspect was struck by at least one round.”
After being treated by deputies and then on-scene ambulance staff, Powell was transported to a hospital for further medical aid. The involved deputies will be placed on paid administrative leave per department policy.
Due to the early stages of the investigation, no further information will be released at this time. Sheriff’s officials added, “Please note that this is preliminary information. More information will be forthcoming in the following days in greater detail.”
Update at 3:48 p.m.: This morning (Friday, January 19), the Calaveras County Sheriff’s and Amador County Sheriff’s SWAT attempted to serve a search warrant in the 1000 block of Woodhouse Mine Road near Stanley and Rabbit’s Foot roads north of Highway 26, resulting from a comprehensive investigation into a person who is not allowed to have firearms. The unidentified subject had been reported for threatening people with great bodily harm and discharging weapons in the area, according to sheriff’s officials.
Upon the deputies’ arrival at the residence, the teams established a perimeter and attempted to contact the sole occupant by phone. Sheriff’s officials report, “The occupant informed Sheriff’s personnel and Sheriff’s Dispatch that he had no intention of exiting or complying with their orders.” The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Crisis Negotiation Team continued to speak with the subject and provide space to de-escalate the situation.
At 10:55 a.m., sheriff’s officials say the subject fired several rounds toward one of the law enforcement vehicles, but deputies did not return fire and opted for negotiations to continue. The team of negotiators resumed their efforts and reestablished contact. Sheriff’s officials added, “As of the time of this release, law enforcement units remain on scene and are continuing to attempt to communicate with the subject.” They advise that there is no risk to public safety.
The public is still asked to avoid the area if possible. An update will be provided as soon as new information comes into the newsroom.
Original post at 12:36 p.m.: West Point, CA – The Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office is currently engaged in law enforcement activity in the West Point area.
The incident is taking place in the 1000 block of Woodhouse Mine Road near Stanley and Rabbit’s Foot roads north of Highway 26. Sheriff’s officials have not specified what the “law enforcement activity” is at this time. They advised, “Currently, the incident is contained, and there is no risk to public safety.”
The public is asked to avoid the area. Highway 26 is open in both directions. Sheriff’s officials added, “More information will be available as the situation progresses.”
