Goldendale, Washington March 19, 2024.
At about 1753 hours Officer Kruger responded to a fight in progress at 311 W Putman. When Officer Kruger arrived, he located two female victims. The victims were profusely bleeding, and Officer Kruger called a medic. Both victims were transported to Klickitat Vally Health for treatment. The suspect was identified as a domestic partner from the same residence who fled the scene prior to Officer Kruger’s arrival.
Officer Kruger was able to get the description of the suspect and the suspect vehicle. The suspect vehicle was located at mile post 9 on HWY 97 by the assistance of WSP Trooper who detained the suspect as KCSO Deputy and Officer Kruger arrived on scene. The suspect was identified as William Travis Esson age 55. Esson had multiple stab wounds to his body that were life threatening and possibly self-inflicted. Esson was life flighted to Peace Health in Vancouver. Sgt Lucatero and Officer Kruger later responded to Peace Health to Arrest Esson on attempted murder charges.
At this time, the case is still ongoing and the WSP crime scene response team was called out to assist with the processing of the crime scene.
There is no threat to the community currently. Thank you to all the involved agencies for the quick response and support of working together.
End of statement.