The Washington State Patrol (WSP) and King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) are requesting assistance from the community in locating the individual responsible for a December 20, 2018 shooting that hit a child in the head, causing the 14 year old boy to lose his eyesight.

On December 20, 2018 at approximately 11pm, a family was traveling on SB SR 509 just south of the 1st Avenue bridge when the front passenger window was shot out. Tragically their 14 year old son was hit in the head and subsequently lost his vision. It may be this was not intended and the individual using the firearm may not be aware of the consequences of his/her actions.

Upon learning of this child’s injury there may be observable reactions by the responsible individual.

These may include but are not limited to the following:

• Sudden unexplained mood swings
• Intense interest in the media coverage
• Increased drug or alcohol use
• Withdrawal from social/daily activities

While this has been the only reported injury, there have been other reports from members of the community indicating that their vehicles and/or residences have been hit by gunfire over a period of months. These incidents have occurred in the area of SR 509 and S. 160th. In June four cars were shot from a location further south on the same highway. No suspect was arrested and the case is still under investigation Anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement as the prevention of further incidents and injuries is paramount.

Along with the WSP and the KCSO, a task force has been created to include Des Moines Police Department and the Port of Seattle Police Department with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The purpose of this task force is to have a unified investigation of these shooting cases.

Law enforcement is confident there are members of our community who have information regarding the shootings and are asking for cooperation. Oftentimes citizens have information of value but do not come forward because of concerns that it may not be important to the investigation. We ask that you let us assess the relevance of your tip. Please contact us with any information you may have regarding these shootings. Furthermore, if there is concern with the circumstances in which the information is obtained, your identity can remain anonymous. Please call (425) 401-7880 or email us at SR509shootingtip@wsp.wa.gov.