Redding, California — Authorities have apprehended a man following a violent axe attack that occurred Thursday afternoon in Redding. The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that John Yu was located and taken into custody without incident around 3 p.m. Friday, several hours after he allegedly assaulted a resident with the weapon.
With Yu now in custody, officials state that there is no longer a threat to the community and have expressed gratitude toward the Redding Police Department and local residents for their prompt reporting and vigilance during the search.
The incident unfolded on Manzanoaks Drive, where Shasta County Sheriff’s deputies responded to emergency calls reporting a violent assault. Witnesses described the chaos as Yu, armed with an axe, caused significant damage within the home. Concerned residents fled to an upstairs bedroom for safety, barricading themselves as Yu began striking the door with the axe.
Deputies arrived quickly, initiating an emergency response, and spotted Yu fleeing the scene with the axe still in hand. Despite extensive search efforts involving K-9 units and a drone team, inclement weather hampered the authorities’ attempts to locate him immediately.
The victim, who was attacked by Yu, has since been treated at a local hospital for multiple injuries, including lacerations and a broken forearm. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported as a result of the frightening encounter.
Initially, authorities issued a shelter-in-place order for residents within a half-mile radius, which was later expanded to a two-mile radius as the search for Yu intensified. Law enforcement lifted the order once he was apprehended.
Yu is described as an adult Asian male, around 5 feet 8 inches tall, with a slim build. At the time of the attack, he was reported to be wearing all black clothing.
The Shasta County Sheriff’s Office is urging anyone with further information about Yu’s actions or whereabouts prior to his arrest to come forward. Authorities have advised the public to remain cautious, as Yu was considered armed and dangerous during the incident.