Police Investigating Fatal Vehicle Accident Involving a Firearm

UPDATE: June 2, 2022 – The male occupant of the vehicle died on May 31.  The Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be suicide by a single gunshot wound to the head.  The Families have been notified and the investigation is ongoing.

UPDATE: May 26, 2022 – At approximately 4:00am Thursday morning, the power was restored to nearby homes and the roadway was opened.

The male and female occupants of the vehicle involved in the incident were married, residing in Renton. The Medical Examiner determined the cause of death for the female to be a single gunshot wound to the head at close range. The male victim is still in critical condition at Harborview. Both victim’s families have been notified. The investigation is ongoing.

May 25, 2022 – At approximately 7:13pm, Mercer Island Police and Mercer Island Fire responded to the 7000 block of North Mercer Way for a reported traffic accident. Upon arrival, Police officers encountered a truck that had hit a power pole. The truck had two occupants: one male and one female.

One victim, female, was pronounced dead at the scene, and the other victim, male, was transported to Harborview Medical Center in critical condition.

Witnesses stated to Police that they heard what sounded like gunshots around the time of the accident. A firearm was located and had been discharged within the vehicle. Washington State Patrol is assisting with the investigation, and the King County Medical Examiner will determine the cause of death. There is no outstanding threat to the public.

Puget Sound Energy disconnected electricity lines impacted by the accident in order to allow for a safe response at the scene. Approximately 48 homes in the area are without power.

Mercer Island Police will provide updates to the community as they are available.