Man arrested for officer assault

MOSES LAKE — A Moses Lake man allegedly had a medical episode after he assaulted two police officers during a Sunday night confrontation in Moses Lake.

About 9:35 p.m. Sunday night the Grant County Sheriff’s Office received a report of subject possibly prowling cars in the 9100 block of Space Street, which is just outside of Moses Lake’s city limits. A nearby Moses Lake Police Department officer responded to the scene and located the suspect, identified as Jose M. Zamora, 35, of Moses Lake, running with various items, according to Capt. Mike Williams.

“When confronted, the suspect stopped running, but was uncooperative and showed signs of altered status.” Williams said. “While attempting to detain the suspect, an altercation ensued. The suspect repeatedly attempted to pull the officer’s firearm from its holster, and assaulted the officer with fists and feet.”

Additional officers responded to the scene and detained Zamora. As officers were taking the suspect into custody, Zamora allegedly assaulted another MLPD officer, who received injuries and was released from Samaritan Hospital in Moses Lake after receiving treatment.

“Shortly after being detained, the suspect appeared to have a medical episode, and medical aid was summoned for Zamora as well as the injured officer. Zamora was taken to Samaritan Hospital, then transferred to a Spokane hospital for additional care,” Williams stated.

Washington State Patrol detectives are investigating the incident. Williams said during the confrontation with police Zamora displayed strength that was “far above and beyond” what a person of his stature and condition would normally display.

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