SPOKANE, Wash. — A suspect was arrested in Northwest Spokane early Monday morning after he retrieved a firearm from a closet and pointed it at a responding officer when he responded to a domestic violence call, the Spokane Police Department said.
Fred A Ballestero, 28, was booked into Spokane County Jail for second degree assault, unlawful imprisonment domestic violence and fourth degree assault domestic violence, the department reported.
Spokane Police Officers responded to the report of domestic violence in the 6100 block of north Driscoll Boulevard.
The victim called 911 crying, unable to answer questions freely and officers were told by the 911 operator that she sounded terrified, police reported.
Officers said, she had barricaded herself and her small children in the bathroom. The victim was able to answer “Yes” and “No” questions that she’d been assaulted and guns were involved in the incident. There was also another child in the basement of the home.
Once officers were on scene, they positioned themselves around the home. One officer took up a position near a bedroom window at the northwest corner of the house, the department said.
As he did this, he witnessed Ballestero walk to the bedroom closet and retrieve a handgun. Ballestero then turned and point the gun directly at the officer. He ordered Ballestero to drop the firearm, which he did, but then he retreated back into the house ignoring additional instructions to stay where he was, a release from police said.
Fearing for the victims inside the home, officers forced the front door open and were able to safely take Ballestero into custody. The victim was treated and released at the scene, officers said.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, there is help. Go to YWCA Spokane’s website or call 509-326-CALL 24.