At 10:57 a.m. Monday, July 19, 2004, the Meeker County Sheriff’s Office received information from the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office, which had an active warrant for the arrest of a wanted felon. The information indicated that Robert John Verdon, 49, was hiding from law enforcement in an apartment in Grove City. Verdon was convicted Friday, July 16, on drug-related charges during a jury trial in Chippewa County. He fled the courtroom prior to the verdict being returned by the jury and a warrant was issued for his arrest. Meeker County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to 605 Second St. So., Apt. 2, in Grove City, to attempt to apprehend the suspect. Upon officers’ arrival, Verdon tried to escape through an apartment window. When he encountered officers outside the building, he re-entered the building through the same window and barricaded himself in the apartment. Officers attempted to negotiate with Verdon, who threatened to shoot anyone who attempted to enter the apartment. He indicated that officers would have to shoot him before he would go back to prison. Verdon stated that he was making firebombs and threatened to throw one at the officers at the scene. A short time later, officers noticed smoke and flames in the apartment. Officers were able to take custody of the suspect, who was then transported to the Meeker County Memorial Hospital in Litchfield, and treated for smoke inhalation and second-degree burns to his upper body. The Grove City and Litchfield Fire Departments responded to and contained the fire. Extensive damage occurred to the apartment with heat and smoke damage to other apartments within the same building. Damage is estimated to exceed $200,000. Verdon is currently in custody for the Chippewa County warant, with charges pending for Meeker County. Gold Cross Ambulance, Grove City Rescue, Litchfield Rescue, DNR Enforcement Officers and the State Fire Marshall also assisted at the scene.
