A 72-year-old retired physician who formerly practiced in Moses Lake was taken into custody in Vero Beach, Florida, on Monday following an exchange of gunfire with a U.S. Marshals regional fugitive task force.
The man, identified as a former doctor in Moses Lake, previously maintained a medical practice in the region for many years. Records from the Washington State Department of Health indicate that his license as an Osteopathic Physician and Surgeon was originally granted on November 26, 1990, and is currently listed as expired. He subsequently relocated to Colorado, where he most recently served as a neurosurgeon at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Grand Junction.
Colorado Allegations
The apprehension stems from an investigation conducted by the Grand Junction Police Department. Authorities allege that on January 28, the suspect administered prescription medications to a victim to incapacitate them before committing sexual assault.
Following this inquiry, an arrest warrant was issued on February 25 charging the suspect with multiple counts of sexual assault.
Florida Confrontation
Investigators with the U.S. Marshals Service in Grand Junction identified intelligence suggesting the suspect had traveled to Florida’s Treasure Coast. This information was forwarded to the U.S. Marshals Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force, which located the vehicle transporting the suspect and initiated a traffic stop in the vicinity of Vero Beach.
Authorities report that the encounter intensified when the suspect disregarded multiple commands to leave the vehicle and allegedly began shooting at law enforcement. Task force members returned fire, striking the suspect several times.
A deputy U.S. Marshal sustained a gunshot wound to the leg. The officer received medical treatment at the scene before being taken to a local medical center. Officials confirmed that the marshal was discharged from the hospital on Tuesday.
Detectives from both the Martin County Sheriff’s Office and the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, who operate as part of the task force, were present during the incident but escaped injury.
Current Status
The suspect was transported to a local hospital, where he is expected to survive the injuries sustained during the confrontation. In addition to the sexual assault charges originating in Colorado, he now faces further accusations, including the attempted murder of a federal officer. The investigation into the matter continues.