Seattle, WA — The King County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) is serving as the Independent Investigative Team (IIT) in the investigation of a Seattle Police Department (SPD) officer-involved shooting that occurred on December 2, 2025, in South Seattle.
Under Washington State law (RCW 10.114.001), KCSO is conducting an independent criminal investigation into whether the use of deadly force met the state’s “good faith” standard. The findings will later be forwarded to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for review.
Incident Details
According to KCSO, the incident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. near 42nd Avenue South and South Othello Street. Seattle police responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a man waving a gun. Officers attempted to de-escalate the situation by issuing commands for the man to drop his weapon.
Authorities say the man did not comply and pointed the gun toward officers, at which point officers fired their weapons. SPD officers immediately rendered medical aid, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.
Information Releases Governed by State Law
With SPD’s exit from the Federal Consent Decree in September 2025, all deadly force investigations now follow state independent review laws. Under RCW 10.114.011 and WAC 139-12, all public information related to this investigation must be authorized and released by KCSO.
Seattle Police have been permitted to release a brief overview video of the incident with authorization from KCSO. Additional details, including officer identities and further evidence, may be released within 72 hours, provided it does not compromise the investigation.
Ongoing Updates
KCSO stated that weekly public notifications will be issued until the investigation is concluded. Under WAC rules, the investigative team must notify both a non-law-enforcement community representative and a family liaison before releasing further details.
Media inquiries related to this investigation should be directed to the King County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Office at kcsomro@kingcounty.gov or 206-263-2560.
Officials emphasize their commitment to transparency, accountability, and public trust while ensuring the integrity of the independent investigation.