A 47-year-old Beaverton man wanted on allegations of sex crimes involving minors slipped past deputies Tuesday morning after he jumped from a window while officers tried to serve an open warrant. Deputies moved to contain the neighborhood and called in specialized units, but the suspect stayed one step ahead. Authorities urged residents to call 911 if they spot the man and not to approach him.
Suspect Identified as Eric Daniel Marts
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office identified the man as Eric Daniel Marts, 47. Deputies say they were attempting to serve an open warrant in the 3000 block of Southwest 121st Avenue when Marts bolted. He is described as about 5-foot-4 and 110 pounds, with blue eyes and a shaved head. At the time, he was wearing blue jeans, a long-sleeved gray sweatshirt and brown shoes, according to KATU. Investigators say Marts jumped out of a window and ran from the scene.
Searchers Used K9s and a Drone
Deputies locked down the area and brought in a K9 team and a drone to search for Marts but were unable to find him. Washington County has been testing a Drone-as-First-Responder program this spring, deploying drones to more than 90 calls since late February, according to OPB. County crews say the technology can give officers quick situational awareness while they are still arriving on scene. Authorities did not immediately release further details about the underlying warrant.
Drone Program Has Aided Recent Arrests
County officials point to a recent Drone-as-First-Responder deployment that helped them nab a hit-and-run suspect on April 2. In that case, a drone tracked a fleeing driver weaving through residential yards and guided deputies to an arrest, according to a Washington County news release posted on FlashAlert. Supporters cite the April incident as an example of how aerial units can cut down on prolonged vehicle pursuits and speed up searches. The sheriff’s office says it will review trial data before deciding whether to expand the program.
Legal Status and What Residents Should Do
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office says Marts is wanted for sex crimes involving minors. Anyone who sees him is asked to call 911 or contact Washington County non-emergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.
