Benzo sought on first-degree murder charge

OLDTOWN — A man is being sought on first-degree murder charges following a Tuesday morning shooting in Oldtown.

On Oct. 12, 2021, at about 6:30 a.m., the Bonner County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 500 block of Silver Birch Lane in Oldtown to investigate a reported shooting.

Bonner County deputies and Bonner County EMS arrived on scene and found an adult male suffering from gunshot wounds and began life-saving efforts. However, BCSO officials said the victim, Donald Bush, succumbed to his injuries. No one else at the location was injured during the shooting. Both the suspect and victim had been in a relationship with the reporting party, Rebecca Ahlers, 41. This appeared to be an isolated incident. Ahlers positively identified Eric Benzo as the shooter.

Bonner County Sheriff's Office Detectives responded. They are actively investigating and seeking the location of Eric Benzo. He is described as 46 years old, 6-foot, 4-inches tall, with brown hair and blue eyes.

A first-degree murder warrant of arrest of Eric Loren Benzo was issued Tuesday.

Eric Benzo is reportedly driving a dark-colored or bronze Dodge truck and is known to be armed and dangerous. If located, call 911, or your local law enforcement agency.

If you have any additional information, please contact Bonner County Dispatch at 208-265-5525.