Armed standoff ends peaceably

Henry Arthur Prado

A domestic violence call on Sunday night, June 23, 2024, resulted in a two-hour armed standoff in the Ellendale Community, said Alexander County Sheriff Chad Pennell.

The call came in to authorities about 8 p.m. on Sunday. A woman called and alleged that a man, later identified as Henry Arthur Prado, 54, of Taylorsville, was pointing a gun at her and threatening to shoot her and her children in the home. This was at a location off Caldwell Pond Rd., Pennell stated.

Officers responded and spoke to Prado from behind cover because there were weapons in the house. Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office responded with their armored vehicle. Alexander Emergency Management and Alexander Rescue Squad came to the scene to help with heat rehab.

It was apparent Prado had been drinking. After a period of time, Prado allowed the woman and children to leave. Pennell made the decision to let Prado stay in the home and “sleep it off” after determining he did not intend to harm others.

Charges were filed and Prado turned himself in to authorities on Monday. He faces charges of Assault By Pointing A Gun and Communicating Threats. After his first court appearance on Monday, Prado was released on a $25,000 secured bond awaiting trial.