NEWPORT — Newport Police are searching for a suspect following an assault involving a shovel on Tuesday morning.
Police Chief Travis Bingham reports that officers responded to 274 Elm Street at around 10 a.m. after receiving a call about a man screaming and waving a gun.
Upon arrival, officers found no one outside but ordered occupants to exit the home. A search of the premises revealed a 17-year-old boy with a hand injury.
Investigators believe the teen was selling a motorcycle when two men, purportedly buyers, assaulted him with a shovel in the home’s garage. The victim’s cries for help prompted a resident to brandish a firearm, causing the suspects to flee.
The injured teen received on-scene treatment for defensive wounds sustained while shielding himself from the shovel attack.
Police have identified Jason Willey, 40, as a suspect. He is described as a white male, approximately 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing about 190 pounds.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident or Willey’s whereabouts to contact Newport Police at 802-334-6733.
