COLFAX – The Whitman County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a carjacking suspect fleeing Spokane County at approximately 6:30PM on September 4, 2026. Multiple citizens reported the suspect vehicle traveling erratically southbound on SR195 through Whitman County. The vehicle was reportedly speeding, making unsafe passes, and forcing other vehicles off the roadway.
The suspect vehicle struck another vehicle on SR195 near Trestle Creek Rd. The collision did not result in any reported injuries. The suspect continued southbound before losing control and crashing into the ditch on SR195 near Pape Machinery. Deputies arrived moments later, where the suspect, later identified as 34-year-old Johnathan Payne of Moscow, emerged from the vehicle and advanced towards the deputy. Payne failed to comply with the deputy’s commands but was taken into custody with assistance from nearby citizens.
The deputy sustained a cut to the forehead during the incident. While being assessed by medical personnel, Payne also bit an EMT on the wrist. Payne was initially transported to Whitman Hospital in Colfax for treatment, but due to the nature of his injuries, he was later flown to Spokane for additional medical care…