RATHDRUM, ID – A suspect wanted in connection with multiple shootings in Pasco, Washington, was arrested Wednesday evening in Rathdrum following a coordinated operation by several law enforcement agencies, according to the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives with the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit (SIU) received information from the Pasco Police Department indicating that the suspect might be in the area. The suspect, identified as Brian A. Panduro-Valenzuela, 21, of Spokane Valley, Washington, was later located near the intersection of Highway 53 and Meyer Road in Rathdrum.
Detectives from the Coeur d’Alene Police Department and agents from the FBI assisted with surveillance and followed the suspect to a nearby construction site. The joint KCSO/Coeur d’Alene Police Department SWAT team then responded and took Panduro-Valenzuela into custody without incident.
He was booked into the Kootenai County Jail and is being held on a $5 million bond.
According to investigators, information from the original crime scene and additional evidence collected during the arrest indicates that Panduro-Valenzuela is a documented member of the Gangster Disciples, a known criminal street gang.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office credited interagency cooperation, including efforts from the FBI and local law enforcement partners, for the safe and efficient apprehension of the suspect.
