Manhunt underway after fugitive fires shots at officers during pursuit

PLUMMER, Idaho — Officers from two law enforcement agencies are scouring an area along the Benewah/Kootenai County line after shots were fired during a traffic stop.

At approximately 11:20 this morning, tribal officers from the Coeur d’Alene Reservation attempted to stop a white Chevy pickup believed to be driven by John Crispin. Crispin is wanted by the U.S. Marshals and has a history of offenses, including firearms violations, multiple aggravated assault, battery and resisting a police officer.

Crispin failed to stop and after being pursued north on Highway 95, he exited his vehicle about two miles north of County Line Road, fired multiple shots at officers and ran on foot into the surrounding countryside. At least one Tribal Police officer returned fire, but it is unknown if Crispin was injured. 

Tribal police and officers from the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Departments along with K-9 units are searching the area.

The sheriff’s office asks that members of the public avoid the area and, if they see the suspect, call their office at (208) 245-5555. Crispin is considered armed and dangerous and should not be approached.

More information will be published as soon as it is available.