Suspect Taken into Custody Following Lengthy Standoff 

September 1, 2024 – Goleta, CA – Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office officials report that a Goleta man has been taken into custody following a lengthy standoff, on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at approximately 8:33 A.M., deputies responded to Buena Tierra housing in the 6000-block of Hollister Avenue for a report of an assault that had just occurred. When deputies arrived, they contacted an adult male victim with serious injuries.  The victim was transported to an area hospital with serious injuries but is expected to survive.

Deputies learned that the suspect, identified as 41-year-old Adam Unmuth, had returned to the balcony near his room on the third floor. Deputies attempted to contact Unmuth who was agitated, non-compliant and armed with a knife.  Deputies evacuated the building while they continued to try to convince Unmuth to surrender. Allied agencies responded to assist with traffic control and fire and medics were staged.

The Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Team and Crisis Negotiations Team arrived and contained the scene for several hours while deputies authored an arrest warrant. The warrant was approved at approximately 10:54 A.M.

Deputies attempted to get Unmuth to surrender with the use of a Sheriff’s K9, kinetic projectile and chemical agents.  At approximately 12:54 P.M., deputies forced entry into the room and took Unmuth into custody.  He was transported to an area hospital for medical attention.  He will later be booked into jail after medical clearance.  Booking charges and bail amount are pending.

Source & photo: Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office