By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter
A 16-year-old Rochester boy suspected to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs or both was arrested last night after allegedly confronting residents at four homes, including using a knife to slash and cut a door causing a female to flee.
It began with a 911 call about 9 p.m. about an intoxicated male outside a residence who allegedly shoved the caller who had been trying to calm him down at 185th Avenue Southwest in Rochester, according to the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office.
About 30 minutes later, a frantic female called 911 to say a male was trying to break into her home, Lt. Greg Elwin said in a news release.
He came inside armed with a knife and she fled, according to Elwin.
One of several responding deputies located the suspect walking along the roadway and took him into custody without incident, Elwin said.
Elwin reported the young man had threatened at least one person using the knife, demanding keys to their car.
The boy, who was not named, was booked into the Thurston County Youth Service Center for first-degree burglary and first-degree attempted robbery, according to Elwin.
Sheriff John Snaza issued a statement praising the various citizens who assisted each other and the sheriff’s office.
“These types of incidents punctuate how important it is that we all be vigilant in our daily lives,” Snaza stated. “These neighbors came together to look out for each other and work with deputies to get this guy in custody. By working together, we can help keep our families and homes safe.”