Captain Jason Berry
Government and Media Relations
(360) 596-4010 – office
(360) 596-4015 – fax
http://www.wsp.wa.gov
*** For Immediate Release***
Date:
February 17, 2011
Contact:
Trooper Julie Startup
Phone:
425-766-0812
E-mail:
Julie.Startup@wsp.wa.gov
Fleeing Felon Apprehended after Pursuit and Multi-Agency Manhunt
A suspected drug dealer and auto thief’s run from the law came to a screeching halt late Friday night after he led a State Trooper on a short pursuit in a stolen car before crashing and fleeing on foot. A Seattle PD K-9 and King County Sheriff’s Guardian One helicopter were quick to respond and a 25 minute manhunt ended with his capture.
William David Vinson, a 25 year-old Seattle resident, was wanted on 2 outstanding felony warrants (escape and drug possession). He is being investigated for driving a stolen car, possession of marijuana (more than 400 grams packaged to sell), being in possession of multiple burglary tools (several metal files and shaved keys used to steal cars), and being under the influence of drugs while attempting to flee the trooper.
At 11:40pm a WSP Target Zero Team (TZT) member observed the vehicle Vinson was driving, a blue 1989 Toyota Camry, traveling westbound on Roanoke St without any headlights. Once the trooper attempted to stop the vehicle and a short pursuit ensued. The suspect vehicle veered off the road a few blocks later striking a stop sign. Vinson fled from the vehicle before it had come to a stop and ran through back yards in an attempt to escape. Troopers, an SPD K-9 officer, and Guardian One located the 25 year-old Seattle resident running through dense shrubbery and an alleyway just north of E. Shelby St and were able to arrest him without further incident.
Vinson has an extensive criminal history to include multiple felony and misdemeanor convictions. Vinson is currently being held in the King County Jail without bail.
