Kent, WA — The Kent Police Department is urging the public not to misuse emergency services after officers arrested a 28-year-old Auburn man who falsely reported that his girlfriend had been shot behind an East Hill business.
According to the department, the man called 911, claimed his girlfriend had been shot, provided a location, and then hung up. Due to the seriousness of a possible shooting, Kent Police dispatched multiple officers, supervisors, and fire and medic units. Lights and sirens were used as responders rushed to the scene, preparing for what they believed was a critical and potentially life-threatening situation.
When officers arrived, they located the caller in a parking lot—but there was no girlfriend, no victim, and no sign of a shooting. Police initially considered whether the caller might be the shooter or if the alleged victim had fled. Officers conducted an aggressive search of the area, attempting to locate and aid the supposed victim.
Minutes into the investigation, the man began claiming that his girlfriend was invisible. Police noted that his behavior did not indicate hallucinations or a mental-health crisis that might explain the fabricated report.
Authorities concluded that no emergency had occurred and that the caller had invented the entire story. He was arrested for filing a false report.
Kent Police emphasized that false emergency calls are not only illegal but also dangerous. Such calls divert officers, medics, and fire personnel away from real emergencies—potentially delaying lifesaving responses for people who urgently need help.
The department warned that adults who choose to misuse 911 should expect to face legal consequences. They also encouraged residents who are curious about emergency responses to watch police television programs rather than creating fake emergencies.