UTAH COUNTY, Utah — A 23-year-old Genola man is facing multiple serious charges after allegedly attempting to stab a Santaquin police officer during an encounter on Thursday, January 23, 2025.
Timothy Olesen was arrested on aggravated murder (a first-degree felony), two counts of assault on a peace officer (second-degree felonies), and charges related to the manufacture and distribution of a controlled substance, among other offenses. The incident began when Santaquin Police responded to a domestic violence call at a residence in Genola.
According to police reports, officers arrived at the scene around 5:30 p.m. after a caller reported a verbal altercation between Olesen and his parents. The caller indicated that the situation had not become physical. Upon arrival, Olesen’s father informed officers that his son had been acting aggressively and that he was trying to remove him from the home due to ongoing behavioral issues.
While police were at the residence, Olesen reportedly made a 911 call claiming to have sustained an injury. Officers began searching for him, eventually locating a narrow staircase leading to Olesen’s apartment. As one officer reached the top of the stairs, Olesen allegedly emerged from the apartment holding a blue steak knife. The officer was stabbed multiple times in the chest, with the knife penetrating his ballistic vest and trauma plate. Though the officer described the blows as forceful, similar to being punched by an adult male, the vest prevented more serious injury.
Following the attack, Olesen retreated back into the apartment. Police officers quickly descended the staircase, but Olesen emerged again moments later, this time throwing the knife at officers. After another brief standoff, Olesen retreated into the apartment once more, barricading himself inside.
A tense, hours-long standoff ensued, with officers attempting to negotiate a peaceful surrender. Eventually, Olesen complied and exited the residence, where he was taken into custody without further incident. Medical personnel reported that Olesen told them he had consumed large amounts of alcohol prior to the confrontation.
During a search of Olesen’s apartment, law enforcement discovered over 5,000 grams of marijuana and various items associated with drug distribution.
Olesen was transported to the hospital for evaluation and was later booked into the Utah County Jail. As of now, he remains in custody facing multiple felony charges. The Santaquin Police Department has not released additional information, and the investigation is ongoing.
This incident highlights the dangers law enforcement officers face while responding to domestic disturbances, where situations can quickly escalate into violent confrontations.