Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On October 25, 2026, at approximately 4:35 p.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) responded to a reported armed robbery at the Patriot Fuel Station, located at 295 Blue Lake Boulevard in Blue Lake.

Upon arrival, deputies contacted the store clerk, who reported that a female suspect armed with a sawed-off shotgun had attempted to rob the business. During the attempted robbery, a struggle ensued, and the shotgun discharged. Fortunately, no one was struck by the gunfire, and no injuries were reported. The firearm was successfully wrestled away from the suspect and subsequently recovered by HCSO deputies.

Through their investigation, deputies identified the suspect as Sarah Ballou, 43, of Medford, Oregon. Investigators also identified the vehicle Ballou was reportedly driving when she fled the scene.

Based on the investigation, deputies obtained a Ramey arrest warrant for Ballou on charges of attempted murder (Penal Code 664/187), attempted robbery (Penal Code 664/211), and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (Penal Code 29800(a)(1)).

Later that evening, Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology played a critical role in locating Ballou and coordinating a multi-agency response. Using ALPR resources, HCSO personnel were able to identify and confirm the suspect vehicle traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 101 in the Southern Humboldt area. This timely information was relayed to the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office and the California Highway Patrol (CHP), allowing neighboring law enforcement agencies to respond and assist in locating the suspect.

CHP officers subsequently located Ballou’s vehicle in northern Mendocino County and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle failed to yield, resulting in a pursuit. CHP officers ultimately brought the vehicle to a stop and took Ballou into custody. She was transported to the Mendocino County Jail, where she was booked on the outstanding Ramey warrant and additional charges of evading a peace officer and reckless driving.

This incident demonstrates the significant role ALPR technology can play in modern law enforcement. Following a violent crime, suspects can quickly travel across jurisdictional boundaries, making timely identification and location critical to protecting the public and preventing further harm.

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office recognizes the importance of responsible, lawful, and effective use of technology to support public safety, strengthen interagency partnerships, and hold individuals accountable for criminal conduct.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or related criminal activity is encouraged to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip Line at (707) 268-2539.