Lane County, OR – A Blachly man was arrested Saturday afternoon after allegedly assaulting two people, threatening them with an axe, and setting his home on fire during a tense standoff with deputies, according to the Lane County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies responded around 3 p.m. on October 25 to the 20200 block of Highway 36 in Blachly for a reported assault. Officials said 60-year-old Darin Dwayne Watson allegedly attacked two people with batons before threatening them with an axe.
When deputies attempted to contact Watson, he reportedly threw objects from inside his home. Authorities deployed an armored rescue vehicle and a drone to maintain distance and communication. After several hours of negotiation, Watson allegedly set his home on fire.
Deputies said K9 Tito apprehended Watson in a carport near the burning home as flames quickly spread. Despite the intense heat, Watson allegedly continued to resist before being taken into custody.
He was treated at a local hospital, then booked into the Lane County Jail on multiple charges, including unlawful use of a weapon, two counts of fourth-degree assault, two counts of menacing, resisting arrest, and interfering with a law enforcement animal. Additional fire-related charges are under review.
Authorities thanked the Lane Fire Authority and Lake Creek Fire for their assistance in containing the blaze.
