Thursday, October 1, 2026
A man found resting in a grassy area near the intersection of 148th Avenue SE and Champion Estates Drive SE in Thurston County is facing charges following a routine welfare check by deputies.
Thurston County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a suspicious person near the road and found 66-year-old Bret Kiesel on Thursday, June 19.
Kiesel, who was identified in a sheriff's office report, declined medical attention, stating he had been recently discharged from the hospital due to a heart condition and was taking a break due to numbness in his legs.
While checking on his well-being, deputies noticed a large bowie knife in Kiesel's bag. They ran his information and discovered an active felony warrant for vehicular assault due to driving under the influence out of Pierce County. It was also discovered that he is a convicted felon.
Deputies observed two loaded firearms concealed under Kiesel’s bag along with a large quantity of ammunition in his possession.
“One was a semi-automatic .380 caliber handgun with a full magazine and one round in the chamber, while the other was a break-action .22 LR revolver with all chambers loaded,” the responding deputy stated in the report.
A further search of his person revealed a small baggie containing a crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine, as well as another knife from Kiesel’s pocket.
He was taken into custody without incident and transported to Thurston County Corrections Facility. Kiesel was booked on two counts of unlawful possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a controlled substance.
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Boatyarddog
Resting on a grassy area, is NOT probable Cause for investigations. The judge may dismiss charges here.
Saturday, July 12, 2025 Report this
Boatyarddog
"Welfare check" should not produce an ID check... its code for were going to violate YOUR privacy.
Saturday, July 12, 2025 Report this