Suspect found, arrested after fleeing from police; multiple agencies responded

by the Foothills Gazette • Posted at 10:49 a.m. Thursday, March 11

MAPLE FALLS – A suspect wanted for multiple felony charges in connection with a domestic incident was arrested on Wednesday after law enforcement agencies tracked him for nearly an hour in the town of Maple Falls.

According to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s office, suspect William Anderson, 45, was wanted in connection with a domestic violence incident that took place on Monday on Golden Valley Drive, Paradise Lakes. Anderson fled the area at the time and was not located. The suspect allegedly made several threats, and has a history of previous arrests and jail time.

On Wednesday late morning, Anderson’s truck was spotted by WCSO heading westbound in the 7600 block of Mount Baker Highway in Maple Falls. Anderson, who had altered his appearance, and spray painted his truck black, was driving the truck and attempted to flee police. A male passenger was also in the vehicle. Anderson drove behind Frosty Inn, where he then broke the canopy of his truck and got stuck after trying to go over boulders. The men then fled the scene.

Law enforcement backup included response from a U.S. Border Patrol unit, Washington State Patrol, Sumas Police Department and Everson Police Department, as well as a Border Patrol helicopter and K-9 unit. Officers were spread out in the area of Mount Baker Highway and Silver Lake Road, some with guns drawn, while the helicopter circled overhead.

Anderson tried to locate a vehicle for a getaway car, and then attempted to hide and gain entry into a home in Cascades West, a small residential neighborhood off of Silver Lake Road.

Anderson was found by authorities and taken into custody. He was booked Wednesday afternoon for felony harassment, unlawful imprisonment, assault (4th degree domestic violence), and unlawful possession of a firearm. No one was injured during the search.

Anderson is currently being held without bail, and will appear in Whatcom Superior Court at 3 p.m. today, when a judge will decide bail.

The Foothills Gazette will post other details as they are confirmed, including information about the passenger, who was reportedly not located.