Lawton, OR – A manhunt was launched this morning around 135th and Lee after a suspect fled from law enforcement while being investigated for allegedly stealing copper from a residence.
According to Comanche County Sheriff Michael Merritt, deputies were initially investigating a suspicious vehicle parked at an abandoned house in the area. When law enforcement attempted to make contact with the individual, the suspect quickly fled on foot, running north into a nearby wooded area.
A K9 unit was deployed, and authorities were able to track the suspect for approximately half a mile. However, despite efforts to follow his trail, the scent was lost, and the search was temporarily stalled.
In an attempt to broaden their search efforts, deputies deployed a drone to assist in locating the suspect. Unfortunately, the drone did not yield any helpful results, and the suspect remained unaccounted for.
Authorities have since impounded the vehicle the suspect was driving, and the investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Sheriff Merritt has urged local residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement by calling 911.
As of now, there are no further updates on the identity or whereabouts of the suspect. Lawton authorities are continuing to work on resolving the situation and are asking the public to cooperate with any ongoing investigative efforts.
