UPDATE: Authorities have apprehended Osman Morales-Salto, the suspect in a Pasco shooting, in Pullman, Washington, just hours after a $5 million arrest warrant was issued. The capture took place on Wednesday, following a coordinated effort between multiple law enforcement agencies.
The Pullman Police Department received a tip late Tuesday that Morales-Salto was hiding in the Aspen Heights area, located on Military Hill. This information was relayed from the Pasco Police Department, which is investigating a shooting incident that occurred early Sunday morning, resulting in six counts of first-degree assault against Morales-Salto.
The situation escalated as the Whitman County Regional SWAT Team and the Pasco Street Crimes Unit were dispatched to confirm his presence. After several hours of surveillance, officers successfully apprehended Morales-Salto without incident. Authorities confirmed that there is no ongoing public safety threat at this time.
As the investigation unfolds, the Aspen Heights complex, which comprises around 100 buildings, is currently being evacuated. Residents are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes, especially around North Grand Avenue and Pullman-Albion Road.
Displaced students from Washington State University are being directed to the CUB Senior Ballroom, while non-student residents are being temporarily housed at the Pullman Senior Center at City Hall.
The collaborative operation involves not only the Pullman and Pasco Police Departments but also the Washington State Patrol, Latah County Sheriff’s Office, Moscow Police Department, Whitman County Emergency Management, and the Pullman Fire Department.
As this story develops, more updates will be provided on the ongoing investigation and the safety measures in place for the affected community. Stay tuned for breaking news as authorities continue to secure the area and gather evidence related to the shooting incident.
