COLVILLE, WA — A man is dead following an officer-involved shooting that occurred Sunday evening, March 23, during an attempted warrant arrest near Northport.
According to the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were attempting to serve a felony arrest warrant in the 3300 block of Highway 25 North at approximately 5:14 p.m. when the situation escalated. The subject reportedly exited a residence armed with a firearm on his hip and did not comply with commands to surrender.
Deputies requested assistance from the Sheriff’s Office crisis negotiator while continuing to use time, distance, and cover in an attempt to de-escalate the situation. After several minutes of communication, the man reportedly walked away from the home before breaking into a run.
As deputies pursued, they continued issuing verbal commands. A non-lethal pepper ball was deployed in an effort to subdue the man. However, according to the Sheriff’s Office, the individual then drew his firearm, prompting deputies to use lethal force.
Deputies administered medical aid at the scene, and emergency responders transported the man to a hospital in Colville, where he later died.
The Washington State Patrol Criminal Investigation Division is now leading an independent investigation into the incident, following established protocol. All further updates will be provided by that agency.
