Two officers fired at by William Nelson ,Deputy Cao and Sgt. Swithenbank

The Humboldt County Critical Incident Team (C.I.R.T) through their joint investigation learned that the suspect, William Nelson fired his handgun at the two officers. The two Officers fired back with their duty issued handguns after the Deputy was shot. The Officer who was shot in the chest area is Deputy Bang Cao, who has been employed with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office for about 6 ½ years. Deputy Cao is currently still on paid administrative leave, until the investigation is completed by C.I.R.T. Deputy Cao is at home and is still recovering from his injuries and is under the care of a local doctor. The second Deputy involved in the Shooting is Sergeant Ken Swithenbank, who has been employed by the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office for about 25 years. Sergeant Swithenbank is also currently on paid administrative leave until the investigation is completed by C.I.R.T.

William Nelson is still currently being held in the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for attempted homicide of a peace officer and convicted felon in possession of a firearm and his bail has been set at $ 600,000 dollars.