Man arrested at Elmo Post Office after allegedly firing at Polson police officer

A Polson Police officer was allegedly fired upon Friday, Feb. 14 during a traffic stop on U.S. 93 North, near The Shoe restaurant. A suspect is in custody at the Lake County Jail.

According to reports from Polson Police and the Lake County Sheriff, Officer Michael Wharton attempted a traffic stop at approximately 11:50 p.m., on a speeding vehicle without visible taillights. After the officer initiated the stop, the suspect vehicle slowed and pulled over.

While Wharton was radioing his location, the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle immediately opened fire on the officer with a rifle, according to the reports. Wharton, who was still in his patrol car, was struck by shattered glass, but was able to back up and avoid being shot.

Multiple rounds reportedly struck the patrol car, causing extensive damage.

According to Polson Police Chief George Simpson, Wharton continued to pursue the suspect, but was forced to pull over due to the damage to his vehicle. He was later treated by emergency medical services for minor injuries, but was not hospitalized.

Meanwhile, area law enforcement responded and began searching for the suspect who had fled north on U.S. 93. A short time later, a citizen in Elmo reported a suspicious vehicle in that area.

Officers responded and subsequently located the suspect in the Elmo Post Office. He was identified as 49-year-old Cameron E. Francis of Gridley, Calif.

Francis was arrested and booked into the Lake County Jail on charges of attempted deliberate homicide. His bail was set at $1,000,000.

“The swift and coordinated response of our officers and partner agencies was instrumental in ensuring the suspect was taken into custody without further harm to the public,” said Simpson in a press release. “This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers our officers face daily. We are extremely grateful that Officer Wharton was not seriously injured and commend his bravery and perseverance.”

This case remains under active investigation. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact Detective Cody Doyle at 406-883-7301 or via email at cdoyle@cityofpolson.com.