Press Release (Update): Investigation into fatal Randle shooting. (#2)
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PRESS RELEASE
Date/Time: 07-07-17 @ 1345 Hours
Contact: Chief Dusty Breen
Phone: (360) 740-1327
Release #: 2
Investigation into fatal Randle shooting.
An autopsy was completed this afternoon in reference to the July 4th fatal shooting in Randle. The decedent has been tentatively identified based on information found at the scene as a 51 year-old male transient. Next of kin for this individual have been notified, but a positive identification has not yet been made. Confirmation of identity will be released by the Lewis County Coroner’s Office.
Detectives completed processing the scene on the morning and afternoon of July 5th, and have conducted additional follow-up investigation. The original 9-1-1 caller, a 63 year old male of Glenoma, stated he and his wife had gone to contact the decedent at his campsite regarding discharging firearms in an unsafe manner. He further advised when he drove into the camp site the decedent approached the driver side door of their vehicle and produced a firearm, firing multiple shots, to include one round into their interior of the vehicle. The 9-1-1 caller had a firearm in his vehicle and fired one round at the decedent, striking and killing him.
Although initial evidence at the scene, and the autopsy results, appear consistent with the 9-1-1 caller’s account, a thorough investigation continues and will be forwarded to the Lewis County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review upon completion. Anyone having additional information on the incident are encouraged to call the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office at (360) 748-9286, or Lewis County Communications at (360) 740-1105.
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Released 07-05-17 @ 1130 Hours
Investigation into fatal Randle shooting.
Detectives are currently continuing to investigate a fatal shooting that occurred last night. On 07/04/2017, at approximately 1914 hours, deputies were dispatched to a shooting incident occurring on the Forest Service Road 2801, which is off of Cispus Road in Randle.
The 9-1-1 caller, a 63 year old male of Glenoma, advised he had shot an individual at a campsite in self-defense. Deputies and Detectives responded, and were assisted by law enforcement personnel from the Washington State Patrol, Morton Police Department, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Due to darkness and conditions at the scene, processing resumed this morning. At this time all parties involved in the incident have been accounted for, and there is not believed to be a continuing risk to public safety as a result of this incident.
Due to the nature of the investigation, no further information is being released at this time, and our office anticipates releasing updates in the days to come. Anyone having possible information on the incident are encouraged to call the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office at (360) 748-9286, or Lewis County Communications at (360) 740-1105.
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Beingacommittedcommunitypartner, providingprofessional servicetoenhancethesafety,security,andqualityoflifeinLewisCounty.