Newport Police seeking suspect in connection with Elm Street assault

On Tuesday, July 23, at approximately 10 a.m., Newport Police were called to the area of 274 Elm St. for a report of a man who was screaming and waving a gun around.

Officers arrived and found no one outside the home. They ordered the occupants to come out of the home, which they did. Police subsequently searched the home and discovered a 17-year-old boy bleeding from an injury to his hand.

A preliminary investigation determined that the 17-year-old was selling a motorcycle located at 274 Elm St. and that he was assaulted and struck with a shovel while inside the home’s garage by two men who were allegedly buying the motorcycle.

The 17-year-old screamed for help. An occupant of the home responded and brandished a firearm while ordering the suspects to leave.

The suspects fled the area.

The 17-year-old was treated on scene for an injury to his hand. Police subsequently determined the teen was injured while shielding himself from being struck with the shovel.

Police are now seeking a suspect, Jason Willey, 40, who is described as a white male, approximately 6 foot, 1 inch tall and approximately 190 pounds.

Anyone with information on this incident, or anyone with information on Willey’s whereabouts, is asked to call Newport Police at 802-334-6733.