Tuolumne County: Man suspected of domestic battery, kidnapping engages in firefight with deputies
A man suspected of numerous crimes, including domestic battery and kidnapping, has reportedly been hospitalized following a shoot-out with Tuolumne County deputies.
On the afternoon of Friday, January 8, a woman contacted the Sheriff’s Office to report that she’d just escaped being held captive by 61-year-old John Banks of Groveland, whom she also said was in possession of firearms and made comments about engaging in a gunfight with deputies.
Detectives assumed the investigation and obtained an arrest warrant for Banks on suspicion of domestic battery, false imprisonment with violence, criminal threats, intimidating a victim, kidnapping, and damaging or destroying a wireless communication device.
Due to the nature of the alleged crimes, detectives enlisted the help of the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Crisis Response Unit, comprised of SWAT as well as the Crisis Negotiations Team (CNT).
Authorities arrived at Banks’ home around 8 PM, where he reportedly met them outside, armed with a gun. At some point a shooting broke out, with Banks exchanging gunfire with multiple deputies before being hit himself. No deputies were injured.
Banks was quickly hospitalized and is currently in stable condition.
Per standard procedure, the deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave. Banks may also face additional charges related to the shooting.
