Manhunt Underway: Armed Fugitive Damien Madison on the Run After Shooting at Deputies Near Chehalis Trail
THURSTON COUNTY, WA — Law enforcement agencies across Washington state are on high alert following a dangerous encounter involving an armed suspect, Damien Madison, who opened fire on deputies during a high-speed pursuit. The 27-year-old is now the subject of an active Be On the Lookout (BOLO) alert, with authorities urging the public to stay away and report any sightings immediately.
The incident unfolded on the evening of Wednesday, May 8, 2025, when Thurston County Sheriff’s deputies attempted to stop a vehicle tied to multiple felony investigations. According to Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Lt. Angela Ricks, Madison was identified as the driver and refused to pull over, triggering a pursuit through rural areas just southeast of Olympia.
During the chase, Madison allegedly leaned out of his vehicle with an AR-15-style rifle and fired several rounds at pursuing deputies. Thankfully, no officers were struck or injured. The pursuit was terminated due to the high risk to public safety, but the suspect abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot near the Chehalis Western Trail, in the area between Waldrick Road and Stedman Road.
“He is considered armed and extremely dangerous,” said Lt. Ricks during a press conference. “We are using every available resource to locate and apprehend him. We urge residents in the area to remain indoors, lock their doors, and call 911 if they see or hear anything suspicious.”
Suspect Description:
- Name: Damien Madison
- Age: 27
- Height: 5’10”
- Weight: 170 lbs
- Eyes: Brown
- Hair: Dark
- Clothing: Last seen wearing a black t-shirt, black baseball hat with a red bill, sunglasses
- Armed: Yes — known to be in possession of an AR-15 and potentially other firearms
- Warrants: Multiple outstanding felony warrants (specific charges pending public release)
Law Enforcement Response:
The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Washington State Patrol, K-9 units, aerial drones, and the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, has set up a wide perimeter and is actively searching wooded areas and rural properties in the surrounding region. A reverse 911 notification has been issued to residents in the immediate vicinity, warning them to shelter in place and not to approach any suspicious individuals.
“We are treating this as a top-priority manhunt,” said Sheriff Tom Jacobson. “This suspect has already demonstrated a willingness to use deadly force. Our primary goal is to protect the community while locating and arresting him before anyone gets hurt.”
Public Safety Instructions:
- Do not approach the suspect if spotted.
- Call 911 immediately with location and description.
- Be alert to unusual activity, including abandoned clothing, gear, or attempts to access homes, garages, or vehicles.
- Lock all doors, windows, and vehicles; ensure outdoor pets are brought inside.
- Report any home surveillance footage that may show the suspect or his movements.
Background on Damien Madison:
Though specific details about the charges against Madison have not yet been made public, records confirm he is a convicted felon with a history of violent offenses and currently wanted on multiple felony warrants. He has evaded law enforcement on at least two previous occasions, making this most recent incident part of an ongoing investigation into his criminal activity.
Residents in the affected area expressed fear and concern.
“It’s terrifying to know someone with a rifle is hiding in the woods near my house,” said Karen Thompson, a resident on nearby Lacey Rd. “We’re keeping the lights on and the doors locked. My kids are home from school, and I told them not to go near the windows.”
Authorities say they will continue patrols and ground searches throughout the night and into the following days as needed. Updates will be provided through the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office Facebook and Twitter pages, as well as local news outlets.
If you see Damien Madison or have any information about his whereabouts, DO NOT attempt to intervene. Call 911 immediately.