Tukwila, WA — The Tukwila Police Department marked a solemn anniversary Friday, honoring four Lakewood police officers who were killed in a targeted ambush on November 29, 2009. The department shared a remembrance message reflecting on the tragedy that shook the Washington law enforcement community and continues to leave a lasting impact 16 years later.
The four officers — Sergeant Mark Renninger, 39; Officer Ronald Owens, 37; Officer Tina Griswold, 40; and Officer Greg Richards, 42 — were fatally shot while having coffee shortly after 8 a.m. The incident remains one of the most devastating attacks on law enforcement in state history.
The department highlighted the legacy of Sgt. Renninger, who previously served with the Tukwila Police Department for eight years before joining Lakewood PD in 2004. A former U.S. Army Ranger, Renninger became a respected SWAT tactical expert and a leader with the Valley SWAT team. The post described him as a cherished colleague whose expertise, leadership, and friendship left a profound mark on those who served alongside him.
“As we honor these Lakewood officers and the sacrifice they made, it is important to remember that the dedication and actions these officers took each and every day throughout their careers undoubtedly altered for the better the lives of all of those that they [served],” the department wrote.
Tukwila Police added that although the pain of the tragedy remains, their “hearts and thoughts and prayers” are with the families, loved ones, and the Lakewood Police Department each year on this date.
The tribute concluded with the fallen officers’ unit identifiers: LK23, LK101, LK121, LK135.