Washington Deputy Killed in Ambush as Second Officer Fights for His Life
Andrew Powell · Nov 5, 2026 · 2 min read
A Spokane County sheriff’s deputy has died and a second is not expected to survive after a gunman opened fire on officers responding to a reported domestic violence incident in Washington state.
The deputies were among the law enforcement personnel sent to a home Tuesday after a woman reportedly ran to a neighbor’s residence and said her brother had shot her, according to FOX 13 Seattle.
Responding officers learned the suspect had an active felony arrest warrant and access to multiple firearms. Authorities also believed other potential victims could be inside the home, prompting the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office to bring in its SWAT team.
The situation turned deadly when officers approached the residence and attempted to enter.
“SWAT team members and deputies approached the house, attempted to breach the door and were met with gunfire,” Sheriff John Nowels said during a Wednesday news conference.
Deputies returned fire before pulling the two wounded officers away from the home. Both were transported to a hospital, along with the woman who initially reported being shot. Her injuries were not considered life-threatening.
Investigators discovered multiple victims after entering the property. One person was found dead inside the house, another body was located in the yard, and the suspected gunman was also found dead on the property.
Authorities have not publicly identified the people who died.
The sheriff’s office confirmed Wednesday that one of the injured deputies had succumbed to his wounds. He leaves behind a wife and two children.
In a statement, the department honored the deputy’s actions and those of the officers who responded to the shooting.
“Although we know our deputies knew the risks, they bravely moved toward danger to protect others they did not know,” the sheriff’s office said.
The second deputy remains on life support, but officials said he is not expected to recover. The department also revealed that he is an organ donor, with arrangements underway for him to help others through donation.
“As an organ donor, arrangements are being made, and he will continue to serve others with the gift of life,” the sheriff’s office said.
The deaths have left the department mourning one deputy while preparing for the loss of another following the violent response to Tuesday’s call.