Manhunt continues in Central Washington for suspect in Kent man’s killing

The US Forest Service and the Washington Department of Natural Resources have issued orders for the temporary closure of new and expanded areas of concern in Kittitas County in Central Washington during the ongoing manhunt for Jorge Alcantara-Gonzalez, wanted for allegedly killing a Kent man.

The Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office made the request to the two agencies as the search continues for Alcantara-Gonzalez, according to a June 4 press release from the Sheriff’s Office. Alcantara-Gonzalez is charged with the suspected killing of Ian Eckles, 41, along with possession of two stolen vehicles and numerous other thefts and burglaries in Kittitas County.

The Sheriff’s Office said it remains committed to apprehending this dangerous suspect and finding Eckles, whose disappearance around May 17 began the investigation.

The coordinated closure includes all Forest Service lands west of State Route 97 to the edge of the Teanaway Community Forest and a portion of the Teanaway Community Forest on the east side of Teanaway Road and North Fork Teanaway Road. North Fork Teanaway Road is also closed near Milepost 9, eliminating access to recreational lands and facilities north of that point, including 29 Pines Campground.

Additional closures on the east side of SR 97 include the Liberty Campground off Liberty Road and Swauk Campground off SR 97. The emergency closure order extends until June 15 unless modified or rescinded.

These expansive closures reflect the serious threat to public safety that the subject of this manhunt presents. The Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in the area and is actively notifying residents about the situation. Residents are encouraged to lock their doors and vehicles, secure their property and maintain heightened alertness.

Detectives encourage anyone to call 911 to report any suspicious activity in or around these areas immediately, particularly including any stolen or missing property.