UPDATE: A suspect in a serious shooting incident has been apprehended in Pullman, Washington, just hours after authorities identified his location. Osman Morales-Salto, wanted on a staggering $5 million arrest warrant, was taken into custody Wednesday following a coordinated effort by multiple law enforcement agencies.
The Pullman Police Department received a tip from the Pasco Police Department late Tuesday night indicating that Morales-Salto was likely hiding in the Aspen Heights area on Military Hill. This urgent situation stemmed from an incident early Sunday morning in Pasco, where Morales-Salto is facing six counts of first-degree assault.
Around 9:00 AM Wednesday, the Whitman County Regional SWAT Team, alongside the Pasco Street Crimes Unit and the Latah County Regional SWAT Team, was dispatched to confirm his presence at the location. After several hours of surveillance, authorities successfully apprehended Morales-Salto without incident.
In light of the ongoing investigation, officials have evacuated approximately 100 buildings within the Aspen Heights complex. Residents have been advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes around North Grand Avenue and Pullman-Albion Road.
While officials state there is no continuing threat to public safety, they are taking precautions to secure the scene and collect evidence. Displaced students from Washington State University (WSU) are being relocated to the CUB Senior Ballroom, while non-student residents are temporarily housed at the Pullman Senior Center at City Hall.
As the investigation unfolds, the collaboration includes numerous agencies, such as the Washington State Patrol, the Latah County Sheriff’s Office, the Moscow Police Department, and the Pullman Fire Department.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops, and remain cautious in the affected areas.
