Orcas neighborhood concerned after suspicious male armed with a knife shows up on porch

||| BY LIN MCNULTY, ORCASONIAN EDITOR |||

On November 9, an Orcas Island neighborhood was rocked by a late-night incident that has left residents taking extra efforts to ensure their safety. A homeowner reported hearing a noise on their porch and, upon turning on the porch light to investigate, observed what was described as a Hispanic male kneeling down behind the front door holding a large knife.

When asked by the resident what he wanted, the suspect stared at the homeowner, and after a few moments, backed away and left the property. There was no report of the suspect making any verbal threats or making any attempt to physically harm the homeowner. The suspect is further described as 5-8′ tall, with a small scar above one of his eyes and letters tattooed on the knuckles of his right hand. He was wearing green cargo pants, a light gray hoodie, black beanie, black boots, and a light blue face mask. There was no vehicle observed or reported.

Neighborhood residents have reacted by taking further steps to ensure their safety, with one resident learning how to shoot a weapon. The neighborhood met with Sheriff Eric Peters and Councilperson-elect Justin Paulsen to express their concern and their fear last night.

If anyone has any information on the possible identity of the suspect described, please contact the SJCSO Dispatch Center non-emergency number at 360-378-4251 and ask for Deputy John Stanford or Sergeant Bryce Peterson.