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Idaho State Police
District 6 1540 Foote Dr.
Idaho Falls, Idaho 83402-1828
(208) 525-7377 FAX: (208) 525-7294
For Immediate Release: 5/5/2015 - 2:30 pm
Please direct questions to the District Office
IDAHO FALLS - On Friday, May 1, 2015 at 4:44 p.m., the Idaho State Police made a traffic stop on US Highway 26 approximately one mile west of the Lane-Clark rest area in Bonneville County. The driver of the vehicle initially gave the Trooper false information about his identity but he was later identified as Terrence Mitchell Walsh, 21, from the Idaho Falls area. During the traffic stop the Trooper observed at least two firearms in plain view in the rear of the vehicle along with three other passengers. The Trooper told the driver he was under arrest for providing false information to a police officer and, at that moment, Walsh fled on foot. The Trooper began to pursue Walsh on foot towards the South Fork of the Snake River Canyon. After repeated orders by the Trooper to stop, Walsh failed to comply and then jumped down a steep cliff. The Trooper could hear him moving through the thick brush below. The Trooper then heard a splashing sound coming from the river and it appeared that Walsh had entered the river.
Numerous ISP troopers and other law enforcement agencies arrived on scene to help with the search. Due to the steep cliff, officers were unable to get down the embankment and capture Walsh. Law enforcement contacted Bonneville County Search and Rescue, emergency medical services and marine deputies from Bonneville County Sheriff's Office to search the river for Walsh by boat. Air Idaho was also dispatched to assist with an air search. After four hours of an extensive search in the dark, Walsh was still not found. The search was discontinued until the Saturday morning.
During the investigation Troopers discovered Walsh was in possession of drug paraphernalia, scales and baggies inside of the vehicle, along with a loaded shotgun and rifle. Troopers also discovered that Walsh, a convicted felon, has several outstanding felony arrest warrants. One of the passengers in the vehicle, Krista Gabbert-Johnson was arrested for Obstructing and Delaying an Officer and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. She was booked into the Bonneville County Jail.
On Saturday morning, May 2nd, prior to reactivation of search and rescue efforts, law enforcement was contacted by a family member who revealed that they knew Walsh was alive, had made it out of the river and was safe. However, this family member would not disclose where Walsh may be located.
The Idaho State Police are requesting the public's help with any information that may lead to the arrest of Terrance Walsh. ISP asks anyone who has seen Walsh or know of his whereabouts to call ISP at *ISP(*477), (208)525-7277 or 911. Please do not approach Walsh, as he may be dangerous. ISP reminds the public that anyone found to be helping or harboring Walsh will be subject to criminal charges.
ISP will be working with the Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney's Office to pursue additional charges for Walsh and potential recovery costs for all agencies involved with the search and rescue efforts for Walsh.
For media contact call ISP Lieutenant Chris Weadick at (208)525-7377.
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