SWAT team uses robotic unit to search for possibly armed felon in Willmar residence Saturday

Law enforcement used a robotic unit to enter a Willmar residence Saturday where an armed felon was allegedly hanging out.
At about 2:50 a.m., on March 30, Willmar Police were dispatched to the 1100 block of Campbell Ave NW on the report of a domestic assault. Officers arrived and located a 29 year old female victim who indicated she had been assaulted by a person she lived with.
Officers also determined the suspect might be armed with a firearm, and had a history of violence and arrests for violent offenses.
The victim was transported to the hospital by CentraCare EMS for treatment with significant injuries.
Initial information indicated the suspect might still be inside the residence. Due to the history of violence with the suspect and potential firearms, the Willmar Police and Kandiyohi / Meeker SWAT teams were called for assistance.
After numerous attempts to make contact with the suspect, a search warrant was obtained. Officers used a robot to check the apartment for the suspect before officers entered. It was found the suspect had apparently fled the apartment before officers arrived. Firearms were located and are being held as evidence. There was a court order prohibiting firearms by occupants at the residence.
The investigation remains ongoing. The suspect has not yet been apprehended, but there is no known threat to the public.
Willmar Police and Willmar PD SWAT were assisted by the Kandiyohi County Sheriff’s Office and members of the Kandiyohi / Meeker SWAT team.