SHOPLIFTING SUSPECT SHOT TO DEATH IN FEDERAL WAY July 22, 2011
Walmart store at 1900 S 314Th St. Federal Way, WA where shooting occurred. CLICK TO ENLARGE
(FEDERAL WAY, WA) -- A Federal Way police officer shot and killed an armed shoplifting suspect outside a Walmart store Thursday night, according to Kent Police who have assumed command of the investigation.
The incident happened outside the store, which is located in the 1900 block of South 314th Street.
Police had gone there on a report of a shoplifter about 5:30 p.m. and waited for the suspect to come outside.
Police say when the suspect exited the store he was approached by two police officers.
The suspect then began running and foot chase ensued.
Police say during the chase the unidentified suspect stopped, turned toward the officers and reached for what appeared to be an ankle holster and at that point the officers involved in the chase said they observed a gun in the holster and one of the officers responded by firing his service pistol five times.
The man was hit at with at least one round and fell to the ground.
Medics could not revive the man and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators confirmed the suspect had been armed with a handgun.
As is standard in officer involved shootings, the unidentified officer will be placed on administrative leave as the investigation into the incident continues.
