Off duty Vancouver Police officer killed


Clark County Sheriff’s deputy involved in the shooting

VANCOUVER – On Saturday (Jan. 29), Vancouver Police were notified that Vancouver Police Officer Donald Sahota was killed while off duty at his home. The investigation of officer Sahota’s death is being conducted by the Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team. 

Vancouver Police Officer Donald Sahota
Vancouver Police Officer Donald Sahota

“My heart goes out to Officer Sahota’s family and friends and those of us in his VPD family as well. His death is a tragic loss, and he will be deeply missed by many,” said Vancouver Police Chief James McElvain.

Officer Sahota was 52 years old. He was hired by the Vancouver Police Department in April 2014 and prior to that, he worked as a police officer for the Gresham Police Department and Port of Portland Police Department. During his career with the Vancouver Police Department, Officer Sahota worked in patrol, served as an EVOC instructor, an armorer, and was most recently assigned to the Training Unit. Officer Sahota leaves behind a wife and two children.

“The department appreciates the support we are receiving; however we will not be commenting further at this time,’’ read a news release from the Vancouver Police Department Sunday. 

According to a news release from the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, officers responded to an armed robbery at a convenience store in the Orchards area.  The suspect was described as having a handgun and fled the area in a stolen vehicle.  

The suspect was located a short time later and a pursuit of the vehicle was initiated based on the armed robbery.  The suspect traveled towards Battle Ground where he eventually abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.  The suspect contacted a homeowner in a nearby residence.  Police responded and contacted all parties.  

In the course of this contact a deputy with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office discharged his firearm.  The individual who was struck was provided medical aid at the scene but was eventually pronounced deceased.

The incident is being treated as an officer-involved shooting and is being investigated by the Lower Columbia Major Crimes Team. No additional information will be provided by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

Information in this report provided by Vancouver Police Department and Clark County Sheriff’s Office.

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