In a tense incident in Shasta County, California, a manhunt is underway following a dramatic confrontation between law enforcement and an armed suspect. Anthony Esquaville, a 39-year-old man, has become the center of an intensive search after he shot down a surveillance drone operated by the Shasta County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO), reports KRCR.
Escalation of Surveillance to Manhunt
The events unfolded on the morning of Thursday, Feb. 1, when deputies arrived in the area of Dersch Road and Colley Lane in eastern Shasta County. They were there to conduct surveillance on Esquaville, wanted for multiple felonies, including assault with a deadly weapon and making criminal threats. During the operation, Esquaville audaciously shot down the drone, escalating the situation from a surveillance mission to an urgent manhunt.
Community Response
The shooting of the drone prompted an immediate shelter-in-place order for nearby residents. Roads were closed, with the California Highway Patrol blocking Dersch Road, stretching from State Route 44 to Ash Creek Road. Despite the efforts of the Shasta County Interagency SWAT team, Esquaville evaded capture. The shelter-in-place order was eventually lifted, but residents have been advised to stay vigilant.
Description of the Suspect
Anthony Esquaville is described as a 5’6″ white male, weighing approximately 160 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes. Authorities stress that he should be considered armed and dangerous. The public is urged to avoid any contact with him and to immediately call 911 if he is sighted.
The incident highlights the growing challenges law enforcement faces with armed suspects and the use of modern surveillance technology. The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office continues its pursuit of Esquaville and appeals to the public for any information that could lead to his arrest. The community remains on high alert as the search for the dangerous felon continues.
Photo credits Shasta County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) and KRCR.
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