Bellingham Jury Begins Deliberation in Fatal Shooting Trial

Lynda Mercy accused of second-degree murder in 2021 killing of transient man Thomas Flood

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The trial of Lynda Clare Mercy, 67, accused of fatally shooting Thomas Flood, a 67-year-old transient man, and leaving his body on the Semiahmoo Spit in 2021, has concluded in Whatcom County Superior Court. Jurors are now deliberating the second-degree murder case following two and a half weeks of testimony from prosecutors and the defense.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of homelessness and public safety in the Bellingham area, as well as the complexities of prosecuting a murder case without a clear motive or eyewitnesses. The jury's decision will have significant implications for both the victim's family and the defendant's future.

The details

Prosecutors allege that Mercy shot Flood twice, drove his body to Blaine, and left it near the Semiahmoo Spit, where it was discovered by two teens on April 7, 2021. The defense argued that the state's case was "full of gaps" and that law enforcement did not thoroughly investigate other potential suspects. Forensic evidence, including DNA and bullet matching, was presented by both sides, along with testimony from law enforcement, credit union employees, and expert witnesses.

  • The trial began in late January 2026 and concluded on February 19, 2026.
  • Flood's body was discovered on April 7, 2021.
  • Mercy was arrested on April 13, 2021 and charged with second-degree murder.

The players

Lynda Clare Mercy

A 67-year-old Bellingham woman accused of second-degree murder in the 2021 killing of Thomas Flood.

Thomas Flood

A 67-year-old transient man from Langley, Washington, who was found dead on the Semiahmoo Spit in 2021.

Erik Sigmar

The chief deputy prosecutor in the case against Lynda Mercy.

Shoshana Paige

The senior deputy public defender representing Lynda Mercy.

Sophia Padgett

The deputy prosecuting attorney who gave the rebuttal closing argument.

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What they’re saying

“A possibility is not proof beyond a reasonable doubt.”

— Shoshana Paige, Senior Deputy Public Defender (Bellingham Herald)

“Tom's life was a means for (Mercy) to get home. She threw him away like rubbish.”

— Sophia Padgett, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney (Bellingham Herald)

What’s next

The jury will continue deliberations, and a verdict is expected in the coming days. If convicted, Mercy could face a lengthy prison sentence.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges of homelessness and public safety in the Bellingham area, as well as the complexities of prosecuting a murder case without a clear motive or eyewitnesses. The jury's decision will have significant implications for both the victim's family and the defendant's future.