Idaho man accused of shooting at two Adams County deputies has not been apprehended
An Idaho man who’s wanted on attempted murder charges in Adams County is accused of opening fire at two sheriff’s deputies on March 29 before fleeing.
William “Bill” Pearle James is wanted on two counts of attempted murder for the shootings, which happened outside his mother’s home in New Meadows, authorities said.
According to a copy of the probable cause affidavit, James’s mother called the Adams County Sheriff’s Office because James was at her home in violation of a protection order. It was not immediately clear Wednesday why the protection order was in place.
Two deputies arrived at the home in uniform, driving marked cars. When Deputy R. Benavides arrived, the deputy began speaking with James’s mother at the property, which had multiple outbuildings.
“Deputy (N.) Sauerland pulled into the driveway as well, and William James began firing at them with a rifle from a barn on the west side of the property,” according to the document. “Deputy Sauerland was able to exit her vehicle and take cover behind it.”
Sauerland’s vehicle was hit multiple times, and she was almost struck, as James continued firing, the affidavit said.
An off-duty Idaho Fish and Game Officer, whose name was redacted, was nearby and responded, and saw James holding the rifle, according to the document.
“The officer said the suspect was making movements as if he was going to continue pursuing and firing at the officers, and he engaged the suspect with his handgun,” according to the document.
James had not been located as of Wednesday morning. He should be considered armed and dangerous, authorities said. Anyone who sees James or who knows where he is located should not confront him, but rather call 911 and contact local police.
An online records search could not find any serious criminal history for James in Idaho, outside of traffic and driving violations.
This story was originally published April 1, 2020 at 10:59 AM.
