Columbia, IL – A 26-year-old Columbia man was arrested early Wednesday following an armed standoff with Monroe County deputies after allegedly stealing a firearm from a local residence.
According to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched shortly after 12:30 a.m. Wednesday to the 1800 block of Meadow Court to investigate a reported theft of a firearm. Homeowners told deputies that Jared M. Franke, 26, had stolen a gun from their residence before leaving in a vehicle not belonging to him or his family.
Deputies said Franke’s prior criminal history, alleged narcotics use, and the fact he was believed to be armed with a stolen firearm prompted surrounding agencies to be alerted to the situation. Family members later informed deputies that Franke had returned to the home, parking the vehicle nearby before barricading himself inside the basement.
When deputies attempted contact, Franke allegedly resisted and became violent, at times throwing knives and pool balls, and allegedly firing shots at law enforcement. Authorities said they also had reason to believe Franke had access to multiple firearms inside the residence.
A perimeter was established, and negotiators worked for hours to de-escalate the situation. The Illinois State Police SWAT Team was called to assist with the standoff, which lasted nearly ten hours. Officials confirmed Franke was eventually taken into custody without injury to officers, first responders, or himself.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Department reported that charges are pending following the incident.
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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