Suspect Jumps into Columbia River to Evade Police Capture

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 30, 2019

ST. HELENS, OR – At approximately 1:31 p.m. on Tuesday, July 30, 2019, St. Helens officers attempted to take Brian Martin into custody on a parole and probation detainer in the downtown St. Helens area. Martin fled the scene in a vehicle in a reckless manner. Due to public safety concerns, officers discontinued the pursuit.

A short time later, St. Helens officers observed Martin running down the St. Helens City Docks. Martin jumped into the Columbia River to evade arrest and began swimming toward Sand Island Marine Park.

St. Helens police were assisted by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office in deploying two marine vessels. Additionally, Columbia City Police, Columbia Community Corrections, Clark County Fire and Rescue, Scappoose Fire District, and Columbia River Fire and Rescue responded.

Martin refused to board the Sheriff’s Office vessels. Law enforcement provided Martin with a personal flotation device. After lengthy negotiations with law enforcement and parole and probation officers, Martin surrendered and boarded the vessel approximately an hour and a half after entering the water. He was transported to shore for a medical evaluation. Martin attempted to flee law enforcement again and was soon taken into custody and transported to a Portland area hospital for evaluation.

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For further information regarding this press release, please contact the St. Helens Police Department at 503-397-1521.