Suspect Arrested Following Multi-County Manhunt
A 50-year-old Boundary County man is scheduled for a preliminary hearing Friday after allegedly shooting at law enforcement officers during a domestic violence investigation earlier this month.
Samuel Siver faces two counts of aggravated assault on law enforcement personnel following an incident on May 20 that triggered a manhunt spanning two North Idaho counties. He remains held at the Boundary County Jail on $100,000 bond.
The preliminary hearing, set for May 29, will determine whether sufficient evidence exists to proceed with felony charges against Siver. Prosecutors allege he knowingly fired shots at two Boundary County Sheriff’s deputies who were responding to a domestic violence call.
Incident Details and Arrest
According to charging documents, Boundary County deputies were investigating a domestic violence complaint when Siver allegedly opened fire on officers before fleeing the scene. Court records indicate Siver was aware the individuals were law enforcement personnel when he fired the shots.
The suspect’s flight led authorities into Bonner County, where his vehicle was located in the Samuels area. Law enforcement personnel from Bonner County ultimately apprehended Siver in Hope following the search.
No deputies were injured during either the initial confrontation or the subsequent manhunt.
Legal Proceedings
The two felony counts of aggravated assault upon law enforcement personnel carry serious penalties under Idaho law. The charges specifically relate to life-threatening actions directed at officers performing their official duties.
Siver’s preliminary hearing will allow a judge to review evidence and testimony to determine if probable cause exists to move forward with prosecution. The defendant is currently represented by counsel, though details of his defense strategy have not been made public.
What Comes Next
Friday’s preliminary hearing represents the next step in the criminal process. If the court finds sufficient evidence, Siver will be bound over for trial in district court. Prosecutors will present their case for why the charges should proceed, while defense attorneys will have the opportunity to challenge the evidence.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about officer safety during domestic violence calls, which law enforcement agencies consistently identify as among the most dangerous situations deputies face. Multi-agency coordination between Boundary and Bonner County authorities proved critical in the suspect’s apprehension without further incident.
The preliminary hearing is scheduled for 1:00 AM Friday, May 29, at the Boundary County Courthouse.