Police have arrested 23 year old Christian Curiel after a brief pursuit ensued in Fort Smith earlier today.
Police were looking for Curiel in connection to a battery report that was filed by a woman earlier this week. Curiel was allegedly involved in a domestic altercation in which a handgun was also alleged to be involved.
Police located Curiel’s Black Jeep Cherokee after a BOLO (Be-On-The-Lookout) was issued earlier today, and a pursuit ensued.
Curiel abandoned his vehicle after a set of spike strips was used in the pursuit. Officers from FSPD and the Sebastian County Sheriff’s office located Curiel in the backyard of an area residence near 37th and Johnson.
FSPD Canine Officer Ringo was struck in the pursuit, and the extent of his injuries are unknown at this time. Since K-9 Officer Ringo is a sworn FSPD officer, the injury constitutes assault against a law enforcement officer.
Officers on the scene report Curiel swallowing an unknown object before his arrest. He has been taken to Mercy Hospital for observation. At this time no further details are available on Curiel’s condition or release from hospital observation.
Curiel faces aggravated assault charges both for the initial incident and the incident with K-9 officer Ringo.
Several local schools were placed on lockdown due the pursuit, which have now been lifted.
We will continue to provide any updates as this story develops.