A horrific tragedy that began in West Richland, Wash., ended on Interstate 5 near Eugene Tuesday afternoon.
According to the Oregon State Police, Elias Huizar, 40, is suspected of killing two women in West Richland and kidnapping 1-year-old Roman Santos. OSP Capt. Kyle Kennedy, in a statement, said the state police issued an Amber Alert around 11:35 p.m. on Monday, April 22 at the request of the Washington State Patrol after the alleged kidnapping of the child.
The Amber Alert said the suspect may be heading to Mexico.
At approximately 2:40 p.m. on Tuesdsay, Kennedy said Oregon State Police troopers were observing Interstate 5 for the suspect when they located the vehicle southbound near milepost 221. OSP initiated a traffic stop and the suspect vehicle fled southbound. Two troopers engaged in a pursuit with the suspect vehicle at high speeds heading southbound.
Kennedy said there was a minor collision near milepost 209 and the suspect vehicle lost control. An exchange of gunfire occurred prior to the vehicle fleeing again southbound. No known injuries occurred as a result of the gunfire, said Kennedy.
Near milepost 197, the suspect crashed into a vehicle that had stopped. Troopers found the suspect inside the car. He was dead from of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The infant was uninjured and removed from the vehicle.
Involved in the exchange of gunfire, was Superintendent Casey Codding and Sgt. Orly Johnson of the Oregon State Police.
Kennedy offered condolances to the victims’ friends and family.
“I want to start by sending our heartfelt support to the community in West Richland, Washington, a community dealing with senseless tragedy,” Kennedy said in his statement. “My prayer is their community will come together to provide support and strength during this grievous time.”
Kennedy said the conclusion of the incident was the culmination of the work of law enforcement partners in Washington and Oregon, as well as federal contributors.
“Since the start, our goal has been simple – to bring Roman Santos home safely. We did it. Roman is in the care of Oregon officials. We are very proud of the efforts of the troopers involved in this pursuit today. Their dedication and courage are a hallmark of the character of an Oregon State Trooper. Their efforts today were paramount in bringing Roman home safely.”
