Episode 68 – Taking Down a Serial Killer
jonathan@aardvarktactical.com
on
February 18, 2026

Episode 68 – Taking Down a Serial Killer
Description
On June 14, 2020, Butte County Sheriff’s SWAT team executed what seemed like a routine arrest warrant for an arson suspect on a remote mountain property. Using night vision for covert reconnaissance, the team discovered they had walked into an active attempted murder scene. The suspect was later identified as a serial killer responsible for three murders and two attempted murders.
Lieutenant Josh Brazzi, SWAT Commander, and Sergeant Angelo Tavelli, Team Leader, share the harrowing details of this operation that saved a life and took down a dangerous predator. This episode examines tactical decision-making in rapidly evolving scenarios and the challenges of operating in remote, mountainous terrain.
Episode Information
Episode Number: Season 07, Episode 03 (Episode 68)
Episode Title: Taking Down A Serial Killer
Guest(s): Josh Brazzi & Angelo Tavelli
Air Date: February 11, 2026
Episode Length: 1:22:48
Guest Information
Josh Brazzi
Angelo Tavelli
Topics Covered
[00:00:00] Introduction to Serial Killer Case
SWAT team tasked with capturing serial killer responsible for multiple murders.
[00:02:32] Guest Background and Credentials
Josh introduces his role supervising marijuana unit, aviation, and SWAT team.
[00:03:26] Butte County Geography Overview
Description of rural area with lakes, rivers, hunting, and farmland.
[00:06:55] Initial Investigation and Lead Development
How agency began investigating case and developed initial leads.
[00:08:43] Missing Person and Vehicle Discovery
Finding suspect’s car and realizing owner was missing person.
[00:11:11] Phone Ping Location Intelligence
Using phone pings to locate suspect on remote property.
[00:11:57] Remote Property Description
88-acre property with challenging terrain and access issues.
[00:15:08] Initial Tactical Planning
Team develops approach plan considering terrain and communication challenges.
[00:20:01] Insertion and Bear Encounter
Team encounters bear while approaching target location.
[00:34:04] Hearing Victim’s Screams
Team hears screaming sounds indicating possible victim in distress.
[00:43:06] First Visual Contact
Team spots suspect walking up road in darkness.
[00:46:23] Chase and Victim Rescue
Initial chase begins and injured victim is discovered.
[00:56:39] Final Apprehension
Team locates suspect with hatchet and takes him into custody.
[01:03:51] Trailer House of Horrors
Discovery of horrific conditions inside suspect’s trailer.
[01:10:49] Medical Support and Resources
Importance of dedicated ambulance and medical personnel for SWAT operations.
[01:16:08] Lessons Learned and Training
How case influenced future mission planning and team training protocols.








