Thomas Adams, 54, was charged with unlawful discharge of weapons, disturbing the peace and resisting and obstructing officers Tuesday.
University of Idaho students received a Vandal Alert text message of active gunfire on the 100 block of South Almon Street at 4:54 a.m. Students were told to shelter in place. Moscow police closed several roads including A Street and Pullman Road at Line Street, A Street at C Street, N. Main Street at D Street, Asbury and Almon at 6th Street and 3rd Street west of Main Street.
Adams was immediately identified as the suspect. He barricaded himself inside his home, according to a Moscow Police Facebook post.
Adams allegedly fired gunshots at his apartment at 110 S. Almon St. around 2 a.m. Tuesday. Moscow police reported that Adams shot rounds from unknown weapon from his apartment and into the community, but there were no reported injuries.
Students received a series of Vandal Alert texts about the apparent danger, before being notified that the suspect was arrested around 8 a.m.
Moscow Police worked with the Latah County regional SWAT team, Idaho State Police, Pullman Police Department, Washington State University Police and Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office to make the arrest.
The situation was considered active for several hours before police made the arrest. After a six-hour standoff, the use of tear gas and failed negotiations, Latah County regional SWAT team apprehended Adams.
Although schools such as West Park Elementary School cancelled classes for the day, University of Idaho held classes as regularly scheduled. However, students were encouraged by the University to communicate with faculty if they were in a shelter in place location and unable to attend class.
All roads were opened and “shelter in place” orders were lifted after the six-hour standoff and Adams’ arrest. Adams is currently in Latah County Jail.
Joanna Hayes can be reached at [email protected]