On May 31, 2025, deputies with the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) arrested 32-year-old Stephan Sallaz, a wanted felon, following the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Sparks.
At approximately 11:31 a.m., deputies responded to a report of Sallaz being seen at a known location in the 6800 block of Dorchester Drive. Upon arrival, Sallaz fled into the residence and barricaded himself inside.
Due to the severity of the charges and concern for public safety, deputies evacuated surrounding residences. The WCSO SWAT Team, WCSO Hostage Negotiations Team, the WCSO Drone Team, and the Regional Consolidated Bomb Squad were dispatched to the scene at 12:50 p.m.
After Sallaz refused contact with negotiators, deputies obtained a search warrant. Upon executing the warrant, SWAT team members located Sallaz concealed in a crawl space within the residence.
He was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Washoe County Detention Facility. Sallaz was booked on a felony warrant, including charges of resisting a public officer with a deadly weapon.
There is no ongoing threat to the community. This remains an active investigation.
“There was a clear threat to public safety, and our deputies acted swiftly and professionally to ensure the safety of everyone involved,” said Washoe County Sheriff Darin Balaam. “I commend the dedication and teamwork of our deputies and everyone on scene in safely resolving this incident.”
