By OLIVIA BERGMEIER
Salina Post
Yesterday evening, a Salina resident attempted to run into a burning house and threatened firefighters at the scene who were combatting the flames.
At about 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 27, Salina Police Department officers reported to 254 N. Penn Ave. to assist Salina Fire Department staff with scene security, according to SPD Capt. James Feldman, once officers arrived, firefighters called for their help immediately.
While firefighters attempted to suppress an active fire in the residence, a man, later identified as 33-year-old James Dylan Coffman, tried to enter the home regardless of firefighter's warning him.
"The firefighters refused Coffman entry into the residence as they fought the fire," Feldman said. "Coffman removed his shirt and began telling the firefighters he would beat them up."
Officers then located Coffman in the residence's backyard in a recreational vehicle described by Feldman as a camper.
When officers instructed Coffman to exit the camper, Coffman allegedly threatened to shoot officers while inside the trailer.
"He continued to not comply with orders and was advised he was under arrest," Feldman said. "As officers went to enter the camper, Coffman approached them, and a Taser was deployed and was effective."
Feldman said as officers attempted to restrain Coffman, he continued to resist arrest. During the altercation, Coffman received a minor injury to his head, but medical staff later treated him at Salina Regional Health Center.
Coffman continued threatening officers while at the hospital. After treatment, officers transported him to the Saline County Jail and requested charges for unlawful interference with firefighters while in the performance of their duty and interference with law enforcement.
READ MORE: SPD officers conduct high-risk stop after resident steals his girlfriend's Jeep