In the early hours of July 20, 2024, a dramatic incident unfolded in Ritzville, resulting in the arrest of a local man on multiple charges. At approximately 3:14 AM, Adams County Sheriff dispatch alerted the on-duty Ritzville police officer to a situation in the 200 block of West Second Street. A male subject, identified as 36-year-old Brian Packer Massy of Ritzville, was reported to be carrying a large knife and running towards three individuals in the area after a verbal exchange.
Feeling threatened, the three subjects quickly fled the scene in a vehicle. While one of the subjects was being dropped off at his residence in the 100 block of East Third Avenue, Packer reportedly ran towards him, yelling and brandishing the knife.
Ritzville police, with the assistance of Deputy Lane from the Adams County Sheriff's Department, responded to the scene. Officer Borden conducted a thorough search of the area and discovered a machete in a black sheath near the grain silos along the railroad tracks. Packer was subsequently detained and transported to the Adams County Jail for booking.
During the booking process, Packer resisted and obstructed Officers Borden and Carlson, resulting in an injury to Officer Carlson, who required medical treatment at the Ritzville Hospital.
Brian Packer faces several charges, including Attempted Assault in the First Degree, Assault in the Third Degree, Display of a Dangerous Weapon, and Obstructing a Law Enforcement Officer. The Ritzville Police Department has filed a statement of probable cause with the Adams County Prosecutor’s Office, requesting formal charges be filed against Packer.
The Ritzville Police Department expressed gratitude for Deputy Lane's assistance during the incident, highlighting the importance of inter-agency cooperation in ensuring community safety.