Assault Suspect At Large After 11-Hour Banning Standoff

BANNING, CA -- An assault suspect is at large Sunday after prompting an 11-hour standoff in Banning that forced the evacuation of several residents. The incident began at 8:10 a.m. Saturday in the 2200 block of West Ramsey Street when police responded to a report of a female victim being assaulted by a male suspect identified James Britton.

Britton, 33, of Banning, allegedly brandished a firearm and made threats against the woman's life before leaving in a dark colored vehicle.

The incident prompted officers to search for Britton in the vicinity before he was seen running into a house where the victim resides.

A standoff sparked with Banning Police Department requesting the assistance of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. After 11 hours, officers went into the home but Britton was not inside. However, officers did find a firearm that was reportedly stolen in Colton.

Nearby residents were evacuated during the standoff, but no injuries were reported.

Anyone who sees Britton should call 911 immediately. He is considered armed and dangerous, and should not be approached, police said.

--Photo via Banning Police Department