FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A 45-year-old Montana man was arrested Saturday night after allegedly firing multiple gunshots toward a group of people in the parking lot of a Flagstaff hotel.
According to the Flagstaff Police Department, officers received multiple reports of gunfire at approximately 11:20 p.m. on Saturday, October 31, at the Hotel Aspen Inn, located at 1008 E. Route 66.
The first officer arriving at the scene reportedly heard a gunshot and observed a man standing on a second-floor balcony holding a handgun. The officer immediately issued verbal commands, and the man complied by putting down the weapon.
Additional officers arrived and took the man into custody without further incident.
Investigators determined that the suspect had allegedly fired multiple rounds toward a group of people gathered in the hotel’s parking lot. The individuals told police they did not know the suspect and had no previous contact with him.
Despite the gunfire, no injuries were reported.
Police identified the suspect as James Joseph Hansen, 45, of Belgrade, Montana. Hansen was booked into the Coconino County Jail on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, endangerment, discharge of a firearm within city limits, and disorderly conduct involving a weapon.
The Flagstaff Police Department credited community members who quickly reported the gunfire, allowing officers to respond and take the suspect into custody before anyone was injured.
Anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information is encouraged to contact the Flagstaff Police Department at 928-774-1414 or Silent Witness at 928-774-6111.
