Suspect, four victims dead after stabbing attack in US state of Washington
Al Jazeera
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A 32-year-old man stabbed four people to death near Tacoma, Washington, before being shot and killed by a sheriff’s deputy. The attack occurred outside a home on the Key Peninsula, northwest of Tacoma, following reports that the suspect had violated a no-contact order. Deputies from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office responded after receiving a call at 8:41 AM local time. Although they had a copy of the no-contact order, it was not yet valid as it hadn’t been served to the suspect. While en route, the suspect allegedly began stabbing individuals at around 9:30 AM.
The attack unfolded in a cul-de-sac, with multiple witnesses reporting the incident. Law enforcement arrived within three minutes, and the deputy fatally shot the suspect at approximately 9:33 AM. Three of the victims died at the scene, while the fourth was rushed to the hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. The Pierce County Force Investigation Team is leading the investigation into both the deputy’s actions and the stabbings.
The residence where the attack took place belonged to a woman who had filed for a one-year protection order against her son, the suspect. Court records indicate she accused him of mental and emotional abuse, damaging personal belongings, and harming her cat. The suspect had been notified about a hearing for the restraining order but did not attend. His mental health struggles and substance abuse issues were noted in court documents.
This incident highlights the complexities of domestic violence cases, particularly when involving individuals with known mental health challenges. It raises questions about the effectiveness of restraining orders and the adequacy of law enforcement responses when such orders are violated. The case underscores the need for stronger measures to protect victims and prevent tragic outcomes.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/25/2026