Sequim: Crane operator faces weapons charge

SEQUIM — The operator of a crane that tipped over Sunday night in Sequim and nearly damaged several homes will enter a plea in court this week after allegedly assaulting a deputy.

The charges against Jay Edwin Ketchum, 45, of rural Sequim, came hours after he escaped uninjured from the crane accident.

Ketchum, who owns Affordable Roofing in Sequim, is being held in the Clallam County jail on $5,000 bail and will be arraigned at 1:30 p.m. Friday in Clallam County Superior Court.

He was charged with felony third-degree assault and unlawful display of a weapon, a gross misdemeanor, following an armed confrontation with Deputy Duane Hayden early Monday morning.

Hayden and County Fire District No. 3 firefighters responded to a reported blaze at about 2:15 a.m. Monday at Ketchum’s home, 258663 E. U.S. Highway 101, Sheriff’s Capt. Steve Snover said.

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