A large-scale manhunt unfolded yesterday in Redway, California, as law enforcement agencies launched an intense search for locally known fugitive Joseph Larue, who has long been sought after in Grants Pass. The operation began shortly before 4:30 p.m. following reports of a domestic disturbance involving gunfire at an apartment complex on Orchard Lane. The situation quickly escalated, prompting a coordinated response from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), State Parks, and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), who have been actively pursuing Larue since the incident began. The suspect was identified by multiple residents in the area.
According to reports, Larue fled the scene shortly after the initial disturbance and is believed to have taken refuge near Mill Road, in Redway California. In response, law enforcement swiftly established a perimeter around the area, mobilizing a SWAT team from Eureka to aid in the search. Aerial surveillance played a significant role in the operation, with a fixed-wing aircraft and later a CHP helicopter providing overhead support during the evening. Although both aircraft have since left the scene, drones continue to be deployed as authorities intensify the search for the fugitive.
The manhunt has attracted significant law enforcement resources, with officers and emergency medical personnel on standby in case the situation escalates further. While specific details remain unclear, scanner traffic and accounts from local residents suggest that authorities may be searching for a potentially injured individual connected to the domestic incident.
Larue’s involvement in yesterday’s manhunt is the latest in a series of legal troubles dating back to 2022 when he became the focus of a high-profile investigation in Oregon. He and a partner faced multiple animal cruelty and neglect charges after authorities discovered over a dozen malnourished dogs at Pawsitive K9 Solutions, a dog training business he operated in Grants Pass. Additionally, law enforcement found numerous neglected animals at his residence in Selma, Oregon. Altogether, Larue faced 51 charges in Josephine County, including counts of animal neglect and marijuana-related offenses.
In the aftermath of the 2022 investigation, Larue’s legal situation remained complicated. In November 2023, he sought court permission to leave Oregon for Yuba City, California, though it is not clear whether his request was granted or if he returned to Oregon thereafter. The uncertainty surrounding his legal status and movements has added complexity to yesterday’s search efforts.
The current manhunt centers around the reported domestic disturbance on Orchard Lane, where law enforcement has been combing the surrounding area of Mill Road. Neighbors reported hearing gunshots during the initial incident, triggering a swift and robust response from multiple agencies.
While the exact circumstances of the domestic dispute are still under investigation, the authorities have not confirmed any details regarding the condition of potential victims. The search for Larue extended late into the night, and law enforcement officials continue to urge residents to remain alert and report any suspicious activity as the operation persists. At this time, there have been no indications that Larue has been apprehended.
The hunt for Larue remains active as authorities work to bring a resolution to the ongoing situation in Redway.
