Willits, CA – A stabbing incident in Mendocino County late Friday night has left a 47-year-old man with life-threatening injuries and prompted a multi-agency manhunt that concluded with the arrest of a Eureka man on multiple charges, including attempted murder.
Authorities were called to the scene on the 100 Block of Kawi Place in Willits at approximately 10:10 p.m. where they found the victim and quickly provided first aid. An ambulance soon arrived to transport him to the hospital for further medical treatment.
The suspect was later identified as Jason Ryan Omholt from Eureka, according to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office. In addition to the stabbing, Omholt was wanted on an active felony arrest warrant from Humboldt County related to vehicle theft.
While the victim was receiving medical care, law enforcement officers, including additional deputies, wardens from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Willits Police Department personnel, launched an intensive search for Omholt.
The operation led investigators to a residence in the 2600 Block of Mitomkai Way. Omholt was discovered hiding in a bedroom and was initially resistant to arrest. After a period of negotiation, however, he surrendered and was taken into custody without further incident.
A search warrant was executed at the residence where Omholt was found, leading to his arrest. He was charged with attempted murder, resisting arrest, and for the outstanding felony warrant.
Omholt is currently being held at the Mendocino County Jail with bail set at $125,000.
The Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office has expressed its gratitude towards the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Willits Police Department for their collaboration during the search and apprehension phases of the investigation.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with additional information to come forward. Tips can be reported to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office Dispatch Center, or anonymously through the non-emergency tip line.
This violent episode has shocked the local community, heightening concerns about regional security and the effectiveness of current preventive measures against such criminal acts. The collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies underscore the seriousness of the incident and the commitment to maintaining public safety.