Multi-Agency Search Finds Attempted Murder Suspect

A Michigan man is facing first degree attempted murder and kidnapping charges after choking a hotel employee and then fleeing the scene Thursday morning around 8.

Wenatchee Police Sergeant Nathan Hahn says 32-year-old James Smith asked the employee to repair a problem on the 3rd floor of the Super 8 Motel on North Wenatchee Avenue when he suddenly assaulted the woman and began choking her.

"The employee was able to fight back, get away from Smith and escape. She was eventually able transported to Central Washington Hospital ER where she was treated for her injuries which were not life threatening."

Hawn says Wenatchee police then shared a description of Smith's vehicle with other local agencies and social media.

"A citizen saw the vehicle and recognized it from the social media posts. They alerted the police and the East Wenatchee Police Department was able to find and stop the vehicle on Highway 28."

Smith was booked into the Chelan County Regional Justice Center.

The case is under investigation and if anyone has any more information, you asked to contact Det. Donny Graves at 888-4256.