UPDATE, MAY 12, 3:08 PM:
"A chain reaction of a lot of events..."
A Redding man was arrested for multiple gun charges, attempted murder of a peace officer, DUI and possibly more following a solo-vehicle crash in Whitmore and shots fired in Shingletown.
CHP said the incident began at 1:23 p.m. on Thursday with a reported crash near Ponderosa Way and Whitmore Road. The driver of a black 2017 GMC pickup truck, later identified as 31-year-old Blake Lahue from Redding, was able to hitch a ride from the crash to the Dollar General off of SR-44 in the Shingletown area.
However, shortly after the Redding man arrived, CHP said their office began receiving calls from locals that he was walking down the road carrying a gun.
CHP's H16 Helicopter was already in the air during the incident and was able to locate Lahue and confirm he was armed with a gun. But just as they spotted Lahue, Lahue also spotted the helicopter and fired his gun at it.
CHP said their helicopter flew up out of the gun's range and continued to follow Lahue as he walked to the east side of the Dollar General and fire more rounds at them. The helicopter was able to follow Lahue and continue to provide CHP and CAL FIRE crews with his location.
While crews were staging nearby, CHP said Lahue passed out due to being heavily intoxicated. Luckily, crews were able to safely obtain Lahue's firearm and take him into custody without incident.
CHP said Lahue was arrested for multiple gun charges, attempted murder of a peace officer for firing at the helicopter, and DUI. However, additional charges are expected to be added.
Check back for updates as new information becomes available.
--
UPDATE, MAY 12, 3:08 PM:
Highway 44 has reopened following police activity.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates,
--
BREAKING, MAY 12, 2:54 PM:
Highway 44 is closed in both directions near Wilson Hill Road while sheriff's deputies respond to a subject with a gun.
The incident started just before 1:30 with a crash reported in the area.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
--
To report errors or issues with this article please email the editorial team.