Man suspected of trafficking in Clark County arrested with 11,000 fentanyl pills in car

VANCOUVER, Washington (KPTV) – A man has been arrested following a year-long investigation by the Clark County Sheriff's Office (CCSO).

In October 2023, CCSO Major Crimes Unit investigators contacted Martin Rangel at the Sunnyside Motel in Vancouver as part of an investigation into a drive-by shooting.

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During the encounter, police found evidence of drug trafficking and applied for a search warrant from the Clark County courts.

When investigators searched Rangel's motel room, they found methamphetamine, fentanyl, cash, and a gun. He was arrested for possession of a controlled substance (PCS) with intent to resell and illegal possession of a firearm.

Rangel posted bail and was released.

In July 2024, CCSO officers received a tip that Rangel was in possession of a large quantity of fentanyl for sale. A further investigation was initiated.

Investigators found that Rangel frequently traveled to California to obtain large quantities of fentanyl and distribute it in Clark County.

On August 25, police learned that Rangel was planning another trip from California. He was arrested on warrants from the 2023 investigation.

He was extradited to Clark County and later released.

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On September 17, Rangel returned to California with his girlfriend Tatum Littau, who had several arrest warrants against her.

Rangel was arrested again. When police searched his car, they found 11,000 fentanyl pills hidden in the driver's seat.

Rangel and Littau are charged in Jefferson County with willful PCS.

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