Accident – Death – Obituary News :
In a disturbing turn of events, a Pocatello man has been charged with several felonies after allegedly assaulting a woman and holding her at gunpoint inside her own home. Allen John Wurzel, 54, is facing charges of second-degree kidnapping, domestic battery, attempted strangulation, and two counts of aggravated assault, according to court records.
Police Response
The incident took place in a residence on the 4100 block of Chert Lane in Pocatello. Police officers responded to a call about a physical disturbance at the location around 6:30 a.m. on Thursday. The caller reported that a man, later identified as Wurzel, was inside the home with a gun, threatening to kill her.
A witness also called the police, stating that Wurzel was in the victim’s home and holding a gun to his own head. Officers quickly arrived at the scene and took action to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Confrontation
Upon arrival, officers approached the house with caution, as they could hear yelling coming from inside. Suddenly, the front door swung open, and a woman ran out, followed by Wurzel brandishing a small pistol. Officers immediately demanded that Wurzel drop the weapon, which he eventually did after a brief moment of hesitation.
Witness Accounts
A witness at the scene recounted seeing Wurzel physically assault the victim, throwing her to the ground and threatening her with the gun. The witness managed to disarm Wurzel and prevent further harm, eventually calling the police for assistance.
The victim described a harrowing experience of being attacked by Wurzel, who allegedly choked her and repeatedly struck her during the altercation. She also reported that Wurzel held the gun to her head, threatening to take her life.
Legal Proceedings
Wurzel was promptly arrested and taken into custody at the Bannock County Jail, where he is being held on a $50,000 bond. A no-contact order has been issued to prevent him from contacting the victim.
He is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing before Magistrate Judge Carol Tippi Jarman. While Wurzel has been charged with these serious crimes, it is important to remember that everyone is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
If convicted, Wurzel could face up to 60 years in prison for his alleged actions. The legal process will determine the outcome of this troubling incident in Pocatello.
.