Tragedy in East Wenatchee: One Dead, One in Custody Following Late-Night Shooting
East Wenatchee, WA — April 18, 2025
A peaceful Friday night turned into a scene of heartbreak and horror in East Wenatchee after a fatal shooting rocked a quiet residential neighborhood. Around 10 p.m., police were dispatched to the area near the intersection of Ninth Street and Baker Avenue, following multiple reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, officers found one man fatally wounded. Despite life-saving efforts, the victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
The East Wenatchee Police Department, supported by local first responders, swiftly secured the area, cordoning off several blocks in what is usually a calm and family-oriented part of town. Neighbors who had just begun to settle into their weekend routine were suddenly faced with flashing lights, crime scene tape, and the sobering reality of violence too close to home.
According to initial reports and the ongoing investigation, one individual is currently in police custody in connection with the shooting. Authorities have not yet released the names of either the deceased or the suspect, pending official identification and family notification. The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation, though detectives have indicated that the individuals involved may have known each other.
“This was not a random act of violence,” stated East Wenatchee Police Chief Rick Johnson in a brief press conference early Saturday morning. “We want to reassure the community that there is no ongoing threat to public safety. Our hearts go out to the family of the victim, and we are committed to uncovering the full circumstances behind this tragedy.”
For longtime residents, the shooting has left an indelible mark on the community’s sense of safety. “This neighborhood has always been quiet, safe. You never expect something like this to happen on your street,” one local resident shared, standing outside the yellow police tape that now lines Ninth Street. Many have expressed shock and sadness, describing the area as one where “everybody knows everybody.”
As detectives from both the East Wenatchee Police Department and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office continue their work, forensic teams have remained on the scene collecting evidence well into Saturday. The Washington State Patrol has also been called in to assist with crime scene processing, given the gravity and complexity of the situation.
Community leaders and local organizations have begun rallying around the affected family, expressing condolences and offering support. Plans for a candlelight vigil are reportedly in the works, allowing residents to come together to mourn, reflect, and begin the healing process.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident—especially those who may have seen or heard anything around the time of the shooting—to come forward. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to the East Wenatchee Police Department or Crime Stoppers.
This heartbreaking loss serves as a stark reminder of how swiftly violence can change lives and disrupt the fabric of a community. As East Wenatchee grieves, the focus turns to seeking justice for the victim, supporting the family left behind, and restoring peace in a neighborhood now marked by tragedy.
If you or someone you know is affected by this incident, resources for grief counseling and community support are available through local outreach organizations.
🕊️ Rest in peace to the life lost. Our thoughts are with all those impacted.