Oak Harbor Police Seek Armed Suspect Accused of Assaulting Wife

Oak Harbor police are searching for 39-year-old James L. Mathis, who allegedly assaulted his wife at their Oak Harbor home on February 9, then ran on foot when officers arrived at the residence and evaded arrest. The Oak Harbor Police Department has released photos of Mathis and is asking Island County residents for help locating him, warning that he is reportedly carrying a gun and is considered armed and dangerous.

The department publicly identified Mathis in a press release distributed through the city of Oak Harbor's official website and reposted by the Island County Sheriff's Office on Facebook. The release describes him as "a 39-year-old male from Oak Harbor, who is currently wanted on multiple violent felony and misdemeanor charges." Specific charges and warrant details have not been made public.

When officers responded to the February 9 domestic incident, Mathis fled the residence on foot and escaped before he could be taken into custody. He remains at large. Authorities have stressed that anyone who spots him should not approach or confront him under any circumstances because he is believed to be carrying a firearm.

Anyone who sees Mathis is asked to call 911 immediately. Those with information on his whereabouts can also contact the Oak Harbor Police Department through the city's main line at 360-279-4500.

Anyone affected by domestic violence can contact CADA, Island County's domestic violence and sexual assault agency, at its 24/7 help line at (360) 675-7168 or toll-free at (800) 215-5669. CADA offers crisis intervention, shelter referrals and legal advocacy, and can coordinate with law enforcement when appropriate.