Deputy Sheriff Attempted to Stop Union Man for Traffic Offense; Vehicle Chase, Foot Pursuit Followed

Deputies expect to apply for charges against Howard who allegedly forced several vehicles off the road during the pursuit.

As a precaution, all Washington School District schools in the city were placed on lockdown while officers searched for the man. Several churches on Highway 100 were evacuated during the manhunt.

The man drove to the dead end of Diener Road and abandoned his vehicle after a deputy sheriff attempted to stop him for a traffic offense, according to reports.

Initially, the man was reported to be wearing camouflage and carrying a long gun. When he was finally arrested shortly after 1 p.m., he did not have a weapon.

At first, Howard denied having a gun, but later admitted he was carrying a rifle when he fled into the woods.

Deputies recovered the rifle, an SKS assault rifle.

Sheriff Gary Toelke said Detective Sgt. Jason Grellner attempted to stop Howard on Highway A for careless and imprudent driving, but the suspect sped off. The chase led to Pottery Road, then down Diener.

Grellner said he was driving on Route A when the suspect passed him and forced him to take evasive action.

Grellner then gave chase and saw the suspect almost strike several other vehicles head-on, forcing oncoming drivers off the road at Four Mile Road, Julie Lane and Pottery Road.

Detective Lt. Chuck Subke said Howard had borrowed the truck from someone and it was not reported stolen.

Investigators said Howard has outstanding warrants for traffic violations.

The investigation was continuing, the sheriff said.