Former Yakima Cop Suspected of Double Homicide and Child Abduction Possibly Spotted on Hayden Island
Elias Huizar, a 39-year-old former Yakima police officer, is now the subject of an intense manhunt following his suspected involvement in a double homicide and the abduction of a toddler. The latest reports indicate that Huizar may have been spotted early Tuesday morning on Hayden Island, Portland, intensifying the search in the area.
The saga began on Monday afternoon when authorities were called to a shooting outside Wiley Elementary School in West Richland, Benton County. Upon arrival, police discovered the body of a woman, fatally shot, identified only as Huizar's ex-wife. The school was promptly placed on lockdown, though no other injuries were reported at the scene.
The situation escalated when, later that evening, a search warrant executed at Huizar's residence led to the grim discovery of a second female victim, described as a known associate of Huizar. The identity of this second victim has not been disclosed, but the discovery marked a sinister turn in the case.
Amid these horrifying events, an Amber Alert was issued for 1-year-old Roman Huizar, believed to have been abducted by Elias Huizar. The child, described as having brown hair and brown eyes, and approximately 2 feet in height, was last seen with Huizar, who is now considered armed and dangerous and possibly prone to committing further crimes.
Authorities believe Huizar is driving a silver 2009 Toyota Corolla, with Washington license plate number CBZ4745, and may be headed towards the Mexico border. This belief has prompted a widespread alert, extending across state lines as law enforcement agencies collaborate to locate Huizar and ensure the safety of the young child.
The former officer's background adds a complex layer to the manhunt. Huizar served as a police officer in Yakima from 2013 until 2022. His departure from the police force and subsequent actions have left the community and his former colleagues in shock.
Further complicating the matter, Huizar was due in court on Monday on charges of child rape, stemming from an incident in February 2023 where he allegedly assaulted a teenager while she was sleeping at his home. This incident was reported by another teenager present at the time, leading to no-contact orders being issued against Huizar, prohibiting him from coming within 1,000 feet of schools, homes, or workplaces of the alleged victims, and from having any contact with minors under 16.
The multi-agency manhunt has seen contributions from the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and multiple local law enforcement agencies. The West Richland Police Department, along with the Washington State Patrol, are spearheading the efforts, with additional support from regional and national units.
As the search intensifies, the community remains on high alert. The sighting on Hayden Island was reported by a convenience store clerk who called 911 just before 1 a.m. Tuesday, after recognizing Huizar. This tip has redirected some focus of the search towards the Portland area, particularly around Hayden Island, a known commercial and residential hub.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about Huizar's whereabouts or any suspicious activity to come forward. The public is advised to exercise caution and report any sightings to the police immediately, as Huizar is considered extremely dangerous.
This case has sent shockwaves through the communities of Yakima and West Richland, highlighting the unpredictable nature of domestic incidents and the broad impact they can have on local communities. As the search continues, the primary goals remain the safe recovery of Roman Huizar and the apprehension of Elias Huizar to prevent any further harm.
