Local News

Body Found in Burning Car; Suspect Arrested

Jun 05, 2019

One suspect was shot after a body was discovered in the trunk of a burned-out vehicle on the Frosty Creek Road Monday afternoon.

Aeneas Valley Fire District 16 was toned to a report of a vehicle fire just before 4:30pm Monday. Okanogan County Sheriff Tony Hawley said firefighters discovered a body in the trunk of the vehicle and contacted the Sheriff’s Office.

Hawley said an adult male was reportedly seen leaving the car fire. He said, Information from citizens led Sheriff’s Office personnel to the vicinity of the Aeneas Valley Store where the suspect was confronted.

The suspect, 37-year-old Lance R. Bowers was armed with a firearm. Hawley said Bowers did not comply with orders and displayed his firearm. The Sheriff said both the Sergeant and Deputy fired their weapons Bowers was shot at 6:57pm. Deputies administered first aid and summoned Lifeline to assist in treating his injuries. Bowers was transported to Central Washington Hospital via helicopter, where he was treated and later released to law enforcement.

Bowers was booked into Chelan County Regional Jail then transported to Okanogan County Jail on Tuesday and booked on weapons charges.

Hawley said the Sergeant, Deputy and K9 were unharmed during the incident. They are now on paid administrative leave during the investigation as is standard procedure.

The North Central Washington Special Investigations Unit is conducting the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.

Okanogan County Detectives continue to investigate the fire and death.