HOQUIAM, WA – September 23, 2025 – A routine traffic stop in Hoquiam quickly escalated into a major burglary investigation, leading to multiple felony charges and the recovery of stolen firearms and property.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., Officer Gardner—currently in his second phase of field training—initiated a traffic stop on a red Hyundai Elantra near Adams Street Waterfront Park, accompanied by his Field Training Officer, Officer Fernandez.

The driver, a 43-year-old Montesano man, was found to have a suspended license and an active Hoquiam Municipal Court warrant for Criminal Trespass 1st Degree. He was taken into custody without incident.

During the arrest, officers located drug paraphernalia on the suspect and observed additional paraphernalia inside the vehicle, along with a distinctive clown mask linked to a recent burglary. After being advised of his rights, the suspect consented to a full vehicle search. Officers recovered suspected crystal methamphetamine, a digital scale, and burglary tools including pry bars and bolt cutters.

In a follow-up interview, the suspect admitted to committing a burglary at a residence in the 2600 block of Simpson Avenue. He confessed to stealing a large quantity of Ryobi tools and 8–10 weapons, including rifles, BB guns, and crossbows. The suspect said he kept three firearms and sold them for $100. Through the investigation, officers were able to recover all three firearms and confirm them with the victim.

The suspect who according to Hoquiam Jail Records, Mathew Smith also provided information on additional burglaries in both Hoquiam and Montesano. Working with Hoquiam detectives, Montesano Police served a search warrant and recovered several thousand dollars’ worth of stolen property, primarily power tools.

The suspect now faces multiple charges, including:

• Burglary 1st Degree
• Unlawful Possession of a Firearm (x3)
• Trafficking in Stolen Property 1st Degree
• Theft of a Firearm (x3)
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine)
• Possession of Burglary Tools
• Possession of Stolen Property
• Malicious Mischief 1st Degree
• Theft 3rd Degree
• Driving While License Suspended 3rd Degree

Montesano Police also charged the suspect with Possession of Stolen Property 2nd Degree and Theft 2nd Degree.

Following his release from Hoquiam Jail on misdemeanor charges, the suspect will be transferred to Grays Harbor County Jail to face the felony charges. The Hoquiam Police Department will also request a review of his current Drug Offender Sentencing Alternative (DOSA), which he was serving for prior burglary, theft, and trafficking cases.

“This case is a prime example of proactive policing and teamwork,” the department said. “Officer Gardner did an outstanding job looking beyond a simple traffic stop, with guidance from Officer Fernandez, ultimately helping to close multiple serious cases.”

The Hoquiam Police Department expressed appreciation for the partnership with Montesano PD and commended the officers involved for their thorough work in resolving this investigation.