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Crime scene weapon sought by police

Tribune staff report

Police are searching for a weapon used in a reported domestic violence crime and are asking for the community’ assistance.

On Oct. 16, Thomas Payne allegedly cut his wife’s throat with a large knife, and was subsequently arrested on charges of attempted murder. The victim was taken to the hospital with life-threatening injures.

The weapon used in the attack remains outstanding, and the police are asking for assistance from the public if anyone happens to discover it. Investigators believe the suspect discarded the weapon as he ran from the crime scene prior to the arrival of the police. Extensive searches of the initial scene and surrounding areas, even with the assistance of two law enforcement K-9’s, have not resulted in the weapon’s discovery.



The weapon is described as having an approximate overall length of 10 inches. It has a blade of about 6 inches and a handle of about 4 inches in length.

The knife has ornate etchings of an elk and/or a bear, but a clear description of the weapon’s color and specific location of etched images are not available. It is likely the entire knife was abandoned while sheathed in a nylon cover, of unknown color. The knife may have been placed under the end of a fallen tree root or older log.



If anyone discovers the weapon, please leave it undisturbed for the preservation of evidence and immediately call the police so it can be recovered. The South Lake Tahoe Police Department may be contacted at 530-542-6100.


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