Assault suspect arrested in Othello

OTHELLO — A suspect in an assault in Othello was taken into custody early Thursday morning. The suspect’s girlfriend was able to evade capture and is on the run.

About 7 a.m., deputies with the Adams County Sheriff’s office responded to a home in the 600 block of South Allen Road in Othello, after receiving a report of a possible domestic assault. The suspect in the assault, identified as Alejandro Mata, 27, of Othello, reportedly fled the scene before deputies arrived.

It was learned that Mata had been dropped off at a residence in the 600 block of Susan Place, also in Othello. Deputies and officers with the Othello Police Department responded to the residence and Mata’s girlfriend, identified as Stefanie Ziegler, 32, of Othello, reportedly came out and told authorities she was alone and there was no one else in the home.

Authorities warned Ziegler she would be facing charges if Mata was found inside the residence, but she insisted Mata was not inside. Deputies and officers entered the residence and Mata was reportedly found hiding in a crawl space in the attic. He eventually surrendered after K-9 Deputy Garrett was brought into the house.

“Alejandro stated he heard Garrett and he did not want to get bit by him again, so he came out,” stated the ACSO.

Ziegler was able to flee the house on foot however and is currently on the run. She is described as 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighing 180 pounds with blonde hair, green eyes, multiple colored tattoos on her arms and a star tattoo on her face.

Mata was booked into the Adams County Jail for a Department Correction warrant he had out for his arrest and suspicion of fourth-degree assault and resisting arrest. Anyone who knows where Zieglar may be is asked to contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 509-659-1122.

Richard Byrd can be reached via email at city@columbiabasinherald.com.