Redmond residents were instrumental in the arrest of a man Saturday morning after he refused to stop for a traffic violation, sped away in his car, lead officers on a foot chase, and attempted to avoid capture by altering his appearance with a change of clothing.
Shortly before 10 a.m. September 30, an Oregon State Police (OSP) detective working construction zone enforcement in the Redmond area attempted to stop a 1983 Lincoln four-door for failing to signal a turn. The vehicle accelerated off Highway 126 onto Southwest 27th Street, but only made it one block before missing a turn and driving over a curb at the intersection of Southwest Indian and Southwest 27th Streets.
William Clement Averill, the driver and a 39-year old Redmond resident, then fled on foot.
William C. Averill, DCJ Photo
The OSP officer, detective Andrew McCool detained an unidentified 18-year old passenger who remained with the vehicle.
Neighborhood residents reported seeing the fleeing suspect remove his tee shirt and put a ball cap on his head, said an OSP news release.
Redmond police officer Brad McMurrian and his K-9 partner “Rocky” were nearby and responded to assist. The suspect was spotted breaking down a fence while trying to escape, but when he saw the police dog approaching, he surrendered.
Averill was arrested by OSP detective McCool and charged with attempt to elude in a vehicle (a felony), attempt to elude on foot (a misdemeanor), and possession of crystal methamphetamine. A small quantity of marijuana was also recovered, and his vehicle was impounded for being uninsured.
Redmond Police will file additional charges against Averill, including second-degree criminal trespass, disorderly conduct, and second-degree criminal mischief.
In an unrelated domestic disturbance incident that allegedly occurred Thursday night, Redmond Police also charged the suspect with fourth-degree assault, recklessly endangering another person, menacing, possession of a controlled substance, interfering with a 911 call, and harassment.
Averill was lodged in the Deschutes County jail, with bail set at $35,000. According to the news release, Deschutes County Parole and Probation also have placed a probation violation detainer on him.
“Oregon State Police and Redmond Police Department are very appreciative for the assistance of local citizens in helping locate the suspect,” said the release.