Man Convicted of Manslaughter in Sequim Parking Lot Death

Jury finds Port Townsend man guilty in fatal altercation with Sequim resident

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A Clallam County jury has convicted a 37-year-old Port Townsend man of first-degree manslaughter in the death of a 70-year-old Sequim man following a confrontation in a Safeway parking lot last spring. The case stems from a May 6th incident where an argument escalated after a traffic-related encounter between the two men, resulting in the Sequim man suffering severe head injuries and dying two days later.

Why it matters

This case highlights the tragic consequences that can occur from escalating confrontations, even in seemingly routine situations like a parking lot dispute. It also raises questions about the appropriate use of force and the role of self-defense claims in manslaughter cases.

The details

According to trial testimony and police reports, the argument between Aaron Fisher and Richard Madeo began after a traffic-related encounter in the Sequim Safeway parking lot. Fisher admitted to striking Madeo, who then fell to the ground and suffered severe head injuries. Madeo died two days later, with the King County Medical Examiner ruling his death a homicide. The defense argued Fisher acted in self-defense, claiming Madeo had initiated the altercation, but prosecutors argued that surveillance video and witness accounts showed Fisher used excessive force.

  • The incident occurred on May 6th in the Sequim Safeway parking lot.
  • Madeo died two days later on May 8th.
  • The jury returned the guilty verdict on February 13, 2026.
  • Sentencing is scheduled for March 31, 2026.

The players

Aaron Fisher

A 37-year-old man from Port Townsend, Washington who was convicted of first-degree manslaughter in the death of Richard Madeo.

Richard Madeo

A 70-year-old man from Sequim, Washington who died from severe head injuries sustained during a confrontation with Aaron Fisher in a Safeway parking lot.

Clallam County Superior Court

The court where the trial took place and where the sentencing is scheduled to occur.

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What’s next

Sentencing for Aaron Fisher is scheduled for March 31, 2026 in Clallam County Superior Court.

The takeaway

This tragic case underscores the need for de-escalation and restraint, even in heated confrontations, to prevent unnecessary loss of life. It also highlights the complex legal issues around self-defense claims in manslaughter cases that will likely be further examined during the sentencing phase.