Deputy Sheriff shot by Shelter Cove suspect who was being served a civil eviction

On 05-06-2014, at approximately 2:45 p.m., a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputy and a Sergeant arrived at a residence on Kelly Lane, Shelter Cove to serve a court order civil eviction. When deputies arrived at the residence the suspect and homeowner, who has been identified as William Lloyd Nelson, 55 years old, shot at the officers with a firearm. Nelson shot one of the deputies in the chest. Both deputies returned fire while fleeing from the residence.  It is unknown whether the deputies struck Nelson when they returned fire. The deputies immediately radioed for assistance.

Additional deputies, California Highway Patrol Officers (C.H.P.), the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office S.W.A.T. Team, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Crisis Response Team (Negotiators) and medical personnel responded to the scene. The Humboldt County Critical Incident Response Team (C.I.R.T) was activated and also responded to the scene to assist. The C.I.R.T. consists of investigators from local law enforcement agencies.

The deputy who was shot was airlifted by a California Highway Patrol Helicopter to a local hospital. The deputy’s ballistic vest is credited with saving his life.

Residents in the area have been asked to shelter in place. Reverse 911 was initiated to area residences.

Shelter Cove Road at Willow Glenn, and Shelter Cove Road at Toth Road are both closed at this time. Nelsons condition and location is unknown at this time. He is believed to be in the residence.

William Lloyd Nelson is described as 55 years old, white male, 6’0” tall, 165 lbs, blue eyes, blondish strawberry colored hair.

The investigation is continuing.