Coroner’s Office ID’s Benjamin Ashley as Suspect Killed After California Manhunt

Authorities say the subject of a two-week manhunt in the high desert of Kern County, California, was released fromjail last year due to lack of bed space.

Benjamin Peter Ashley, 34, was wanted on charges of kidnapping, murder and attempted murder of a peace officer – but had eluded police for nearly three weeks before he was confronted Saturday. Sheriff’s spokesman Ray Pruitt said two deputies caught up with the suspect and shot him after he brandished a handgun. Three other guns were found on his body. An autopsy is planned for Monday.

Ashley was suspected of killing retired dentist David Markiewitz, 64, found dead on July 30 in a cabin in the woods in Kern County, Youngblood said.

The confrontation came after the owner of a convenience store reported that a man matching Ashley’s description had come in and bought about $100 worth of junk food.

Gary Welfl, manager of Brady’s Mini Mart, told the The Bakersfield Californian the suspect entered his store carrying three duffel bags, wearing a backpack and holding a walking stick. They managed to escape when he briefly left the cabin where they were being held.

During the manhunt, authorities warned residents to stay inside and lock their doors and windows. Each deputy approached in their vehicle towards the man. Officials say the two deputies then got out of their auto to investigate.

Later, a gunman wounded two SWAT team members searching a mobile home. One was hit in both arms and the other was grazed. Two elementary schools and a middle school were shut down. Authorities also closed a stretch of the famed Pacific Crest Trail in the southern Sierra Nevada during the manhunt.

The search area is dotted with unoccupied homes and trailers, outbuildings, abandoned mines and caves.

“Everywhere he went there was a cop in the mountains”, Youngblood said.