4 Killed in Stabbing Attack Near Seattle, Suspect Shot Dead by Deputy

Authorities say a 32-year-old man fatally stabbed 4 people before being shot and killed by a sheriff's deputy.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A 32-year-old man fatally stabbed four people outside a home northwest of Tacoma, Washington on Tuesday morning. The suspect was shot and killed by a sheriff's deputy who responded to the scene.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing challenges of mental health and domestic violence issues in the region, as well as the difficulties law enforcement can face in serving protective orders and preventing escalating violence.

The details

According to authorities, deputies initially responded to reports that the 32-year-old suspect was violating a no-contact order. While en route, additional calls came in that the man was stabbing people outside the home. The first deputy arrived within 3 minutes and shot the suspect, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Three of the stabbing victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while a fourth died while being transported to the hospital. The relationship between the suspect and victims is still unclear.

  • The initial 911 calls came in around 8:40 a.m. local time on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.
  • The first deputy arrived on the scene within about 3 minutes of the initial calls.

The players

Pierce County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and shot the suspect.

Tacoma Police Department

The local police department that assisted in the investigation and provided information to the media.

32-year-old suspect

The man who fatally stabbed 4 people before being shot and killed by a sheriff's deputy.

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What they’re saying

“It was an order, but it just hadn't had that final step of being served yet, so the deputy's intent was to serve that order today.”

— Shelbie Boyd, Spokesperson, Tacoma Police Department (cbsnews.com)

“All of a sudden, I just heard like a series of gunshots. You could really hear it echoing through the trees.”

— Chris Cardenas, Nearby Resident (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Authorities are still investigating the relationship between the suspect and victims, as well as why the protective order had not been previously served on the suspect.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for improved mental health resources, domestic violence intervention, and better coordination between law enforcement and the courts to prevent escalating violence and protect vulnerable individuals.