COWLITZ COUNTY, Wash. – Authorities in Cowlitz County are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a man involved in a series of home invasions and assaults that occurred in the area. The suspect is wanted on charges of first-degree kidnapping, first-degree burglary, and car theft.
The incidents began at 8:30 a.m. when the man broke into a residence in the West Beacon Hill neighborhood near Longview. Upon being confronted by the homeowner, the suspect violently attacked the victim before fleeing in the victim’s car. Law enforcement later found the stolen vehicle abandoned on Columbia Heights Road and tracked the suspect to the 4200 block of Pacific Way.
Deputies believe that the suspect also burglarized another home on Pacific Way, stealing clothing. Residents in the surrounding neighborhoods have been urged to check their home security or game cameras for any footage related to the incidents. The sheriff’s office is specifically requesting video from several areas, including the West Beacon Hill neighborhood and the 3600 block of Columbia Heights to Lone Oak Road.
Feedback from the community has highlighted the shock and unease caused by the recent spate of burglaries in the typically peaceful area. Local resident Taylor expressed surprise at the crimes, stating, “It’s kind of unheard of, but it is spreading, so you just don’t know what you are going to get into.”
Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact Detective Jason Hammer at 360-577-3092, referencing case number A24-3378. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online through the sheriff’s office website. The search for the suspect continues as the community remains vigilant following the unsettling events in their neighborhood.