Crime & Safety
Spokane County, WA SWAT Responds to Armed Suspect Threats Today
Spokane Valley, WA – A wanted 35 year old man was taken into custody Wednesday, Oct. 28, after a SWAT response in Spokane Valley prompted deputies to warn nearby residents about potential danger follo
By Mara Ellison · 2026-10-28T19:44:20.423Z
Spokane Valley, WA – A wanted 35 year old man was taken into custody Wednesday, Oct. 28, after a SWAT response in Spokane Valley prompted deputies to warn nearby residents about potential danger following reported threats against law enforcement.
According to the Spokane County Sheriff 's Office, deputies responded around 7:40 a.m. to a residence in the 800 block of North Herald Avenue after receiving reports of a person in crisis.
Authorities identified the suspect as Charles E. Cartwright, 35, who allegedly made statements about wanting a confrontation with deputies.
Investigators said Cartwright reportedly told an Idaho gunsmith he wanted firearm work completed so he could "have a duel" with a deputy. He also allegedly told another person, "now everyone needs to die."
SWAT Team Surrounds Residence
Deputies established a perimeter, notified nearby neighbors and began attempts to contact Cartwright.
Because of his reported threats, previous firearm related arrest and outstanding misdemeanor warrants, SWAT personnel, crisis negotiators and additional emergency response teams were deployed.
Authorities obtained a search warrant around 9:45 a.m.
After repeated warnings and unsuccessful attempts to secure a peaceful surrender, deputies breached the residence's door and deployed a drone.
The drone located Cartwright upstairs with his hands raised. Negotiators subsequently persuaded him to surrender peacefully.
Previous Arrest Involved Gunfire
Cartwright had previously been arrested Aug. 13 after deputies responded to reports of gunfire in the same Spokane Valley neighborhood.
Investigators said he allegedly fired at least five shots with a black powder revolver during that incident.
He was booked on 15 misdemeanor counts involving reckless endangerment and firearms offenses before being released on his own recognizance Aug. 17 under a court order.
Following Wednesday's arrest, authorities said Cartwright was expected to be booked into the Spokane County Jail on outstanding warrants, with additional charges possible as the investigation continues.
The sheriff's office said the investigation remains active.