KINGMAN – The Kingman Police Department has provided more information regarding last week’s standoff at the Basha’s grocery store in the 3300 block of east Andy Devine Ave. Deputy Chief Joel Freed said police believe Lacelle Manakaja, 19, Peach Springs was inebriated at the start of the ordeal and continued drinking during until he was taken into custody 4.5 hours later.
Officers responded to a report of a knife-brandishing shoplifting suspect at the business at 10:20 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 9.
“Officers learned that Manakaja had stolen alcohol, several large kitchen knives and when confronted by staff, removed the packaging from one of the knives and threatened them,” Freed said. Manakaja reportedly tossed one of the knives at an officer and locked himself in the upstairs bathroom where he drank from the half gallon of vodka he swiped from the grocery store.
Freed said the business was evacuated and authorities established a perimeter. He said a chemical agent was deployed at about 3:00 p.m. after Mohave County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team negotiations failed to produce surrender.
“Manakaja ultimately exited the restroom and was taken into custody without further incident,” Freed said. “No officers, employees or store patrons were injured.”
Freed said Manakaja was booked in the Adult Detention Facility for aggravated assault on a police officer and disorderly conduct with a weapon.
