High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Arrest after Deputy Discharges Firearm

Josephine County, Oregon– The Josephine County Sheriff’s Office successfully apprehended a suspect involved in a high-speed pursuit that unfolded on Fish Hatchery Road and Cheney Creek Road on January 23, 2024, around 10:00 PM.

Deputies initially spotted two stolen vehicles on Fish Hatchery Road and attempted a traffic stop. The suspects, however, chose to evade law enforcement, leading to a pursuit. During the chase, one of the stolen vehicles failed to navigate a corner, coming to a halt, while the other continued to flee.

In a bid to escape, the driver of the immobilized stolen vehicle exhibited reckless behavior by backing into a pursuing patrol car. The tow hitch became entangled with the patrol car’s push bumper, resulting in the patrol car being dragged behind. To bring the fleeing vehicle to a stop, a Deputy discharged their firearm, targeting a tire and effectively disabling the suspect’s vehicle.

Following the halt, a brief struggle ensued during the suspect’s apprehension, resulting in minor injuries to one Deputy. The injured Deputy received prompt medical attention and was subsequently released from a local hospital.

The identified suspect, Asa Martinson Squire, a 32-year-old male, was transported to the Josephine County Jail, facing a number of charges. The charges include Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Resisting Arrest, Recklessly Endangering Another (x2), Reckless Driving, Unlawful Use of a Weapon, Escape, and Criminal Mischief II.

Troopers from the Oregon State Police collaborated with the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office in managing the incident. Detectives from the Oregon State Police have joined the investigation, given the discharge of a firearm during the pursuit.

The Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to the Oregon State Police for their unwavering support and partnership. No additional information was released by officials at this time.