Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team assumes command over investigation

An autopsy was conducted on Thursday on the person who was shot and killed by a law enforcement official on Sept. 27 in Vancouver as the investigation into the incident continues. 

The Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team was activated at the request of the Clark County Sheriff’s Office for this officer-involved shooting incident that occurred in the early morning hours of Sept. 27. The LCMCT responded to the 5400 block of NE 71st Street in Vancouver and assumed command of the investigation.

According to law enforcement:
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a neighborhood dispute involving an armed subject. While deputies were on scene, the subject reportedly fired a high-caliber rifle at law enforcement officers, with multiple shots hitting an occupied armored vehicle. The ballistic-rated windshield of the armored vehicle took a direct hit, compromising the windshield and endangering the six law enforcement officers inside the vehicle.

At approximately 2:36 a.m., the subject was reportedly observed near the rear door of his residence with a rifle in hand and appeared to be targeting officers. A Vancouver police officer assigned to the Southwest Washington Regional SWAT Team fired one round. The subject, identified as Michael D. Williams, was pronounced dead at the scene.

LCMCT investigators have interviewed numerous witnesses and are reviewing body-worn camera video, unmanned aircraft system video, dash camera video, and video from neighboring witnesses. A family liaison and two non-law enforcement community representatives have been assigned to the investigation. The involved officer has been placed on critical incident leave, per department protocol. 

No further details were released by the LCMCT as of Thursday night.