A murder investigation is underway after the deadly shooting in Yakima

YAKIMA, Wash. – Authorities in Yakima are investigating a homicide after a fatal shooting early this morning.

Yakima police reported that officers responded to a shots fired call on the 400 block of Erickson Lane at approximately 2:30 a.m. Upon arrival, they discovered a 32-year-old man suffering from gunshot wounds, who was subsequently pronounced dead.

Yakima police also noticed a related incident earlier in the evening. “About two hours earlier, they had been in the same area for another shot and collected shell casings,” said Chad Janis, a lieutenant with the Yakima Police Department. “However, they could not find any victims or property affected by gunfire, they simply collected the shell casings after the incident and did not know who was there firing the gun during that time.”

Janis also said there was a vehicle in the area that appeared to be connected to the shooting. He said the vehicle was located around 6 a.m., but they did not have probable cause to arrest anyone involved with the car. Police tried to stop it but evaded and stopped the chase for the safety of the public and were unable to find it.

At this time, they do not know the motive of the incident or if both shots fired are related.

Next of kin have been notified of the victim’s death and Janis said the coroner’s office will release the victim’s identity after their work is completed.

The Yakima Police Department urges anyone with information to contact police at (509) 575-6200 or Detective Hinton at (509) 575-3509.