This story comes from WestsideSeattle's news partner Q13 Fox. For the original report, visit their website at https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/man-arrested-2017-vehicular-homicide.
A man who spent over eight years on Washington’s Most Wanted list is now behind bars following an arrest in West Seattle. Jerry C. Denson, 36, was taken into custody on April 2, 2026, in connection with a fatal DUI-related crash that occurred on St. Patrick's Day in 2017.
The original incident took place on I-5 in Kent when Denson flipped his vehicle on the freeway. The crash killed 28-year-old Joy Marie Brannon, who was a passenger in the back seat of Denson’s car. Brannon was ejected from the vehicle and struck by oncoming traffic; she later died from her injuries.
Investigations revealed that Denson had used marijuana before the crash. Although a warrant was issued for his arrest in October 2017 after he failed to appear in court, Denson remained a fugitive for nearly a decade.
"No matter how much time passes, we will continue to pursue those who evade accountability for serious crimes," said Trisena Sharff, Captain of the Washington State Patrol’s Criminal Investigative Division. King County Prosecutor Leesa Manion added that the tragic crash had not been forgotten and praised the "relentless investigative work" between the State Patrol and the Special Operations Unit to safely apprehend the defendant.
Denson has been booked into the King County Jail, where he faces the original vehicular homicide charge as well as reckless endangerment. He is currently being held on $100,000 bail.