Man wanted for weapons and explosive charges taken into custody after SWAT team is deployed

Benton County deputies responded to Headwaters Motel on Monday morning to locate Mark Tousignant, 63, who was reported to be residing in a room at the motel.

Deputies said Tousignant was wanted for absconding on weapons and explosive charges from Saline County.

Tousignant barricaded himself in a room and refused to talk to negotiators, officers said.

Deputies said after several hours of not being able to contact Tousignant, the Missouri State Highway Patrol SWAT Team and the Bomb Disposal Unit were activated.

At one point, the SWAT team threw pepper balls through the window, but officers were still unable to contact Tousignant, deputies said.

Eventually, Tousignant relented when tear gas was deployed, officers said.

Tousignant was treated for minor scrapes and tear gas inhalation, then transported to the Benton County Jail.

Deputies said there were no other reported injuries in the incident.