Two Vancouver Police officers are now on critical incident leave, per standard protocol
VANCOUVER – On Saturday (June 8) at about 1:45 p.m., Vancouver Police were dispatched to the 100 block of SE Columbia Way by the report of a male who had an aggressive German Shepherd that was reported to be running loose and had bitten at least one person. The male was also described as having a firearm.
According to the caller, the male was walking westbound on the trail near the river. At about 2:59 p.m., Vancouver Police located the male and his dog in the area of Columbia Street/Columbia Way and observed the dog attempt to bite a person.
As two Vancouver Police officers approached, the male displayed what appeared to be a firearm, and pointed it at one of the officers. An officer discharged his firearm, striking the male. Officers rendered emergency medical aid to the male, however he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The German Shepherd remained aggressive toward responding emergency personnel and was eventually secured to a dumpster to prevent any further injuries from the dog.
No police officers were physically injured during this incident. The dog was subsequently transported to the Humane Society. One person notified dispatch that they were seeking medical treatment for bite wounds sustained from the German Shepherd.
Two Vancouver Police officers are now on critical incident leave, per standard protocol.
The information being released is preliminary, and this is an ongoing investigation. The Vancouver Police Department notified the Washington State Office of Independent Investigations. The SW Washington Independent Investigation Response Team (SWIIRT), led by the Clark County Sheriff’s Office, will be investigating the shooting.
As part of the Vancouver Police Department’s Body Worn Camera (BWC) Program, video captured by body-worn cameras and in-car cameras will be reviewed and released at a later time.
In compliance with WAC 139-12, Vancouver Police Department personnel will not be involved in this investigation.
- All future communications will be sent via the SWIIRT.
- The SWIIRT will release the names of the involved officers.
- The Clark County Medical Examiner’s Office will release the name of the deceased.
- Once the SWIIRT investigation is complete, the case will be forwarded to the Clark County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
Information provided by the Vancouver Police Department.
Also read:
- Plenty of NBA connections expected in town Sunday for Vancouver Bears game
Former NBA stars Gary Payton and Robert Pack will coach opposite each other when the SuperHawks visit the undefeated Vancouver Bears in a marquee USBL matchup. - 18th District lawmakers to host town hall meeting on Saturday, March 28, in Battle Ground
Stephanie McClintock and John Ley will meet with Battle Ground constituents to answer questions, review the new income tax, and discuss the effects of the $80 billion budget. - State’s umpire-in-chief goes on recruiting trip in his final season as a baseball umpire
Tim Stevens is spending his last season traveling to every Washington umpire association, working to address the shortage of officials and encourage young people to join the ranks. - POLL: After hearing state leaders describe the I-5 Bridge as vulnerable in an earthquake, what is your reaction?
State and local leaders describe the I-5 Bridge as structurally at risk but recommend drivers continue crossing it while complex replacement plans unfold. - Opinion: Historical state income tax and another massive operating budget highlight the end of the 2026 legislative session
Rep. John Ley details the passage of a state income tax, an expanding $80 billion budget, and new Clark County infrastructure funding following the 2026 legislative session. - VIDEO: Legal challenges certain as Gov. Ferguson prepares to sign new income tax
Senate Minority Leader John Braun and other legislators expect legal challenges and initiative efforts to follow Gov. Ferguson’s signature on Washington’s new income tax law affecting high earners and businesses. - Vancouver Fire Department honors firefighters, community members at annual awards ceremony
Acts of bravery, including river rescues and life-saving interventions by both residents and first responders, were recognized at the Vancouver Fire Department’s annual awards ceremony.
