On Thursday, Feb. 28, at 7:30 a.m., the Valley Special Weapons and Tactics (VSWAT) team executed a high-risk operation at the Phoenix Court Apartments, resulting in the arrest of two individuals with multiple felony warrants.
Police said the primary suspect, a 39-year-old male, was wanted on a $30,000 warrant for unlawful possession of a firearm, as well as warrants for Department of Corrections (DOC) escape and second-degree assault with a deadly weapon.
VSWAT members conducted surveillance of the residence, established perimeters to ensure the safety of neighboring residents, and secured a search warrant. After issuing several public address announcements, the suspect exited the apartment and was taken into custody without incident.
A second individual, a 39-year-old woman from Renton, was also observed inside the apartment. Upon exiting, she attempted to evade capture by crawling through nearby bushes and ignoring commands. She was subsequently apprehended and booked on warrants for DOC escape, two counts of residential burglary, motor vehicle theft, domestic violence reckless endangerment, and third-degree criminal mistreatment.
The VSWAT team comprises specially trained tactical officers from Kent and surrounding South King County police agencies. They are deployed in situations deemed highly dangerous, requiring specialized skills and training. Typically, VSWAT operates alongside a member of the Police Hostage Negotiator Team (HNT) to provide suspects with every opportunity for a peaceful resolution.
The Phoenix Court Apartments have been a focal point for law enforcement, with reports indicating multiple shootings and criminal activities in recent years.
“We want to thank VSWAT and HNT for their exceptional work at keeping our neighborhoods safe and for always staying highly alert and well trained to perform their duties,” police said in a statement.
