Spokane, WA – A 36-year-old man is in custody after a violent series of crimes in Spokane that began with an assault and ended with a reported kidnapping and sexual assault.
Assault and Vehicle Attack
Police say Taylor Q. Gudgel was booked into Spokane County Jail on suspicion of first-degree rape, first-degree kidnapping, felony protection order violation, unlawful imprisonment, and first-degree assault, according to a Spokane Police Department news release.
Most of the charges, except for the assault, are related to domestic violence as reported by The Spokesman.
Authorities responded shortly before 9 p.m. Thursday near Greene Street and Sprague Avenue after receiving reports of screaming and what sounded like a physical altercation. Officers discovered a man with significant injuries in the street, who was transported to the hospital and is expected to recover.
Investigators determined that Gudgel assaulted the man during a confrontation and struck him with a vehicle. Police said the victims were acquaintances, and Gudgel had observed them together prior to the attack.
Kidnapping Report
Early Friday morning, a relative of the female victim called police, expressing concern that Gudgel had kidnapped her. The woman had a domestic violence protection order against the suspect, raising immediate alarm among authorities.
SWAT Response and Arrest
Detectives later located Gudgel’s vehicle at around 2:15 p.m. in the 3700 block of East 26th Avenue. SWAT officers executed a forced entry into a residence, finding Gudgel and the woman inside. The suspect was taken into custody, and the woman was transported to the hospital with injuries.
Investigation Continues
Police are continuing their investigation to determine the full scope of Gudgel’s actions and are urging anyone with additional information to come forward. Residents are reminded to report suspicious activity immediately and to adhere to protection orders for safety.
How to Help
If you have information about this case, contact the Spokane Police Department.
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