The following information is preliminary and subject to change as the incident is currently under investigation. Events in this press release may change as the investigation progresses.
Kootenai County, Idaho- In the evening hours of 11/19/23, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to Hwy 95 and Granite Loop Cutoff for an agency assist. Bonner County Sheriff’s Office and the Idaho State Police were in active pursuit of a stolen vehicle.
Idaho State Troopers had deployed spike strips causing the vehicle to come to a stop in the area of Hwy 95 and Granite Loop Cutoff. The suspect driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Kootenai County deputies, including a K9 responded to the area and helped establish a perimeter. A K9 track led to the area where Zachary J. Hawthorne, a 37-year-old male from Spokane, Washington was ultimately taken into custody without further incident. Hawthorne was booked into the Bonner County Jail.
The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office is thankful for the great working relationship with neighboring agencies, and commends the Bonner County Sheriff’s Officer and Idaho State Police in their teamwork and for establishing a quick perimeter. This resulted in the quick apprehension of Hawthorne which ultimately restored safety to the commuting motorist.
Sheriff Robert B. Norris
By: Lt. Z.P. Sifford
Case#23-50376
