Damien Madison, 27, has been arrested after a harrowing manhunt that began on May 8 when he reportedly shot at deputies in Tenino, Washington, piercing a deputy’s vehicle. On Tuesday, May 13, the FBI Criminal Apprehension Team, with support from other law enforcement agencies, apprehended Madison and his mother near the Nevada-California border, bringing the search to a close.
Madison, a 10-time felon, had been on the run for several days after he and a co-defendant led deputies on a high-speed chase. During the pursuit, Madison allegedly threw multiple objects— including a large toolbox, chainsaw, motorcycle helmet, and a gun—at the deputies, narrowly missing their vehicle. The chase ended when Madison fled on foot into the woods. His co-defendant was arrested, but Madison managed to escape.
Sheriff Derrick Sanders of Thurston County expressed his relief upon hearing that Madison was in custody, stating, “I haven’t slept since the shooting. Tonight, I can rest knowing the community is safe.” He also shared concerns about Madison’s potential for violence, especially given the fugitive’s previous statements and the fact that he was believed to be armed.
After the FBI tracked Madison’s movements south, it was determined that his mother had picked him up. Law enforcement agencies coordinated a tactical operation, including a Grappler deployment to safely stop the vehicle near the Nevada-California state line. Federal agents acted quickly, using minimal warning to prevent any further escape attempts.
Sheriff Sanders emphasized the resources used by federal authorities, warning that anyone engaging in similar criminal behavior would not escape justice. “You may get away temporarily, but you won’t escape from the federal government,” he said.
Madison, who faces several warrants for serious charges such as drive-by shooting and first-degree assault, will now go through the extradition process. Authorities are continuing to investigate and seek additional search warrants for the vehicle Madison was traveling in.
As the investigation unfolds, questions remain about the identity of Madison’s initial accomplice and the potential charges that his mother may face for her involvement in aiding his escape.
