Pierce County, WA — Deputies from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) were involved in a shooting early Sunday morning after responding to a stabbing incident in Parkland, Washington. The incident began at approximately 6:24 a.m. when a 54-year-old man called 911, reporting that he and his dog had been stabbed near the S S Quickstop Grocery store.
Details of the Stabbing Incident
According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, the victim, who was in serious condition at the time, reported that a man approached him and asked about his religion.
The victim mentioned being a Christian, at which point the suspect allegedly attacked him and his dog, stabbing both before fleeing the scene on foot. The man and his dog were quickly transported to local hospitals, with the dog requiring emergency surgery due to the severity of its injuries.
Search for the Suspect
Following the attack, deputies initiated an extensive search for the suspect. Approximately two hours later, law enforcement officers spotted the suspect near 8th Avenue Court South and 112th Street South, just a few blocks away from the original scene. According to the sheriff’s office, the suspect ran behind a nearby home as deputies attempted to make contact.
Deputy-Involved Shooting
When deputies attempted to apprehend the suspect, shots were fired. Investigators later confirmed that the suspect was armed with multiple knives at the time of the encounter. The suspect was shot during the confrontation and was subsequently transported to a local hospital. Unfortunately, the suspect later succumbed to his injuries.
Investigation Underway
The Pierce County Force Investigation Team (PCFIT), which is responsible for investigating officer-involved shootings, has taken over the case. The incident remains under investigation as authorities work to piece together the details surrounding the shooting.