Seattle, WA — The King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) has assumed responsibility for investigating an officer-involved shooting (OIS) that occurred in Seattle on October 30, 2025. Acting as the Independent Investigative Team (IIT) under state law (RCW 10.114.011 and WAC 139-12), KCSO is managing all aspects of the investigation, which involves officers from the Seattle Police Department (SPD).
According to an official update released by KCSO on November 5, SPD has been authorized to share a video that provides a brief overview of the incident. The release of additional materials, including officer names and evidence photos, is subject to KCSO’s approval to ensure the integrity of the ongoing criminal investigation. SPD stated that it remains committed to transparency while complying with state legal requirements.
Under SPD Policy 1.115, the department must release specific information within 72 hours of an officer-involved shooting, including officer identities (when appropriate) and an overview video. However, the final authority over such releases now lies with KCSO, following SPD’s exit from the Federal Consent Decree in September 2025.
Incident Overview
At approximately 4:15 p.m. on October 30, SPD officers responded to reports of a man holding an axe near 5th Avenue South and South Holgate Street. Upon contact, officers used less-lethal tools to attempt de-escalation. The suspect reportedly produced a firearm, prompting multiple officers to discharge their handguns.
SPD officers and Seattle Fire Department personnel provided immediate medical aid, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation Details
The investigation is being led by KCSO detectives, assisted by the Washington State Patrol (WSP). The WSP Crime Scene Response Team is handling forensic documentation, while the King County Medical Examiner’s Office (KCMEO) will release the deceased’s identity and cause of death once confirmed.
Consistent with Washington’s independent investigation protocols, the team will provide weekly public updates and has assigned a family liaison to communicate directly with the deceased’s relatives.
For further information, media representatives are directed to contact the King County Sheriff’s Office PIO via phone at 206-263-2560 or email at kcsomro@kingcounty.gov.
The King County Sheriff’s Office Independent Investigations Team has authorized the Seattle Police Department to release the following video that provides a brief overview of what occurred during the October 30 officer involved shooting. https://t.co/FocL66muEY
— Seattle Police Department (@SeattlePD) November 6, 2025