Hotel Standoff: Deputies Apprehend Suspect with Felony Warrants 

September 12, 2023 – Riverside County Sheriff's Office officials report that on September 11, 2023, at approximately 12:59 p.m., Southwest Sheriff’s Station deputies responded to a trespassing incident at a hotel in the 27000 block of Jefferson Avenue in Temecula, resulting in the arrest of a fugitive wanted on multiple felony warrants.

Upon arrival, deputies were informed by a hotel employee about 38-year-old Christopher Williams, who refused to vacate his room. A records check revealed three outstanding felony warrants against Williams, including two for domestic violence and one for resisting arrest.

Despite repeated verbal commands from law enforcement, Williams persisted in his non-compliant behavior, necessitating the precautionary evacuation of neighboring guests. Williams subsequently barricaded himself in his room and refused to cooperate. The Riverside Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Bureau responded, and a two-hour standoff ensued. To facilitate Williams’ surrender, tear gas was strategically deployed into the room, prompting him to exit peacefully. Following his exit, he was apprehended without further incident. Williams was subsequently processed and booked into the Cois Byrd Detention Center.

During the operation, Overland Drive was temporarily closed from Jefferson Avenue to Ynez Road for public safety reasons. It has since been reopened.

Reporting Deputy: Sergeant Jesse Maldonado

File # TE232540132

Source: Riverside County Sheriff's Office