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From the Eureka Police Department:

On December 16, 2020, at about 8:42 p.m., officers with the Eureka Police Department (EPD) responded to the 2100 block of Spring Street for the report of two unknown male subjects seen inside a neighbor’s apartment.

Once on scene, officers confirmed entry had been forced to the apartment and movement could be seen inside. Dispatchers contacted the resident who stated that nobody was home and no one had permission to be inside. Officers set up a perimeter and began giving commands to exit. During this time, an officer saw one male with a long gun through a window.

As a K9 announcement was being made, two male subjects fled out of the apartment in different directions. They were met by officers at the perimeter. 18-year-old Thomas Cookman was taken into custody and found to be in possession of a loaded handgun. 21-year-old Tyler Lemmons was taken into custody after a taser deployment. A handgun presumed to have been in Lemmons’ possession was later found near where he was taken into custody.

Once in custody, statements were made that additional subjects were inside. Based on the totality of the situation, the Humboldt County SWAT team was requested. A reverse 911 Shelter in Place notification was made to nearby residents for their safety. SWAT responded and took over the perimeter and commands for exit. A distraction device was used to assist in the tactical entry into the apartment. After a thorough search, it was determined that there were no additional suspects inside.

Cookman and Lemmons were transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility and both booked for conspiracy, burglary, felon in possession of a firearm, and obstructing an officer. Based on their probation status, they are not eligible for bail.