Cowlitz County, WA – A Kalama man has been arrested following an alleged kidnapping and domestic violence incident that began during a New Year’s Eve gathering, according to the Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said the incident started on December 31, 2025, at a home in the 200 block of Green Mountain Lane in Kalama. During a party, 23-year-old resident Hunter Scott Minton allegedly became intoxicated and belligerent. His girlfriend and another woman reportedly locked themselves in a bathroom out of fear for their safety.
According to the sheriff’s office, when the victim tried to leave, Minton allegedly pulled her from her vehicle against her will and later forced her to let him drive while armed with a handgun. Deputies said Minton threatened to harm himself and his girlfriend if she contacted authorities. Surveillance video from Woodland businesses reportedly confirmed the victim’s account, with witnesses noting her distress.
Minton was later dropped off at a hotel in Vancouver before deputies located him at his Kalama residence on January 6. A search warrant reportedly led to the recovery of a .45-caliber pistol matching the victim’s description.
Minton was booked into the Cowlitz County Jail on multiple domestic violence-related charges, including kidnapping, felony harassment, assault, and reckless endangerment, deputies said.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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